Winery, Distillery, and Event Center
In lush rolling hills and fertile soil of the Southern Minnesota River Valley, lies the award-winning Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery, and Distillery. On a summer morning, you can see over 13 acres of meticulously tended vines bathed in the warmth of the nurturing sun. Sunsets illuminate the gorgeous landscape and creek that embraces the winery. This place is where magic and memories pair perfectly with a family of wines that are completely redefining the industry with their unique craftsmanship.
Giving attention to the creek that ripples through the present ranch property, and the lush forest that embraces it, the Dakota named the creek, “Chankaska,” meaning “enclosed by forest.” To respect and honor this unique historical detail, we chose to name the winery after Chankaska creek.
Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery does more than just make wine and spirits. They also host weddings, and other events in their beautiful event center located right on the grounds.
At Chankaska growing wine grapes in Minnesota's harsh climates is not just doable, but it actually yields delicious and unique wines that can only be found in the Midwest. Select varietals of grapes were created at the University of Minnesota to be able to withstand the harsh weather of Minnesota and create incredible wines, including: Frontenac, Marquette, and La Crescent. The newest varietal coming soon to Chankaska is the Itasca grape. (More info can be found at the link at the bottom of this post).
Going beyond just wine, Chankaska’s latest enterprise is in the distilling of whiskey, gin, vodka, rum, bourbon, and brandy. By offering hard spirits, they’re able to add a rebellious twist to the growing list of Chankaska’s offerings! Undeterred by the dry days of Prohibition and the Minnesota-bred Volstead Act, the original establishment that occupied Chankaska Ranch would not give in to those who feared that partaking in fine spirits fueled social ills and a lack of public morals. Instead, it became a speakeasy for the locals serving up liquor and games of chance. Today, that tradition of offering small-batch hooch continues at Chankaska Creek Ranch for the thirsty and adventurous.
