Out & About: Ozark Wine Country

NWA wineries offer stunning scenery, history & tradition, and exceptional selections that are ripe for sipping.

Did you know that Arkansas’ wine heritage stretches back to the late 1800’s? Here in Northwest Arkansas, commercial winemaking took root when families who emigrated from Italy, Germany and France found the climate favorable to growing grapes.

The Ozark Mountain region, encompassing Northwest Arkansas, has the climate, soil and elevation that are ideal for the wine-making process. Today, the rich tradition of grape growing and winemaking is alive and well at family owned vineyards and small operations that produce exceptional wines. Many offer stunning scenery, dining choices, history and tradition, and a variety of live entertainment, too.

 

Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery

Nestled in a peaceful valley, Sassafras Springs in Springdale offers a variety of delightful experiences such as award-winning wine selections, craft beer and a full dining menu. Tour the Chapel Ruins on the vineyard grounds, or enjoy an afternoon on the shaded deck sipping wine and enjoying live entertainment. What was a milk barn 50 years ago is now the home of the rustic tasting room, which has a covered patio and fireplace. Visit sassafrasspringsvineyard.com.

 

Tontitown Winery

The art of wine making has been passed down through the generations of the Ranalli family since 1923. The Tontitown Winery is housed in the historic Taldo House built in 1917 and offers complimentary wine tastings seven days a week. All wines are made onsite from local Tontitown grapes. During your visit, be sure to stop by the history room to learn more about the wine making Italians who founded and prospered this town. Visit tontitownwinery.com.

 

Keels Creek Winery

Keels Creek Winery in Eureka Springs produces wine from its own vineyards and other Arkansas-grown grapes. Selections include primarily dry white and red wines and lightly sweet wines. The Keels Creek tasting room is housed in a Spanish-style building that is also an art gallery featuring the work of regional artists. Visit keelscreek.com.

 

Railway Winery & Vineyards

Take a scenic drive to Eureka Springs to find this small farm winery along the route of the historic Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad. Railway Winery utilizes 12 different varieties of grapes and several farm-fresh fruits to produce artisan wines. It offers locally made jellies, coffees and wine accessories. Visit railwaywinery.com.