Include a Winery Visit in Your Weekend Plans

Did you sit by the fire this winter, sipping wine, while you dreamed of summer? Well summer is here, it’s going to be a fabulous weekend, and it’s time to have some fun at a winery!

You’ll find inspiration for your weekend right here … and create some memories to cherish this winter.

Do you have out-of-town guests this weekend? Introduce them to the Iowa wineries — they are sure to have a good time.

Thursday, July 16

Jasper Winery, Des Moines, Iowa http://www.jasperwinery.com

Brian Congdon and Brad Seidenfeld  6:00 – 9:00 p.m., various bands, food, fun. Free admission.

Southern Hills Winery, Osceola, Iowa http://www.shwinery.com

Lt. Governor Patty Judge will be visiting at 1 p.m. as part of the Vacation Iowa Tour. http://www.traveliowa.blogspot.com

Friday, July 17

White Oak Vineyards, Cambridge, http://www.whiteoakvineyards.com

Tony Valdez & Don Jacques perform at Friday Night Wine Down

7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Fireside Winery, Marengo, http://www.firesidewinery.com

Live music, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Snus Hill Winery, Madrid, http://www.snushillwine.com

Bill Martin Group, Live music, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Southern Hills Winery at Jordan Creek Mall, West Des Moines http://www.shwinery.com

Vino Rita & Wine Festival, Live music and art, food and other exhibits. $5 admission. Purchase a bottle of Southern Hills Winery wine and then take a Horse-Drawn Carriage ride around Jordan Creek Town Center. Friday nights from 6:00 –9:00 p.m. Red Wine Carriage Ride for two $46. White Wine Carriage Ride for two $44. $15 for each additional person.

Saturday, July 18

Sugar Clay Winery, Thurman, Iowa http://www.sugarclaywinery.com

Live Music with Matt Cox  8-11pm  $5 cover/

Free to case club members.

Loess Hills Vineyard & Winery, Crescent, Iowa http://www.loesshillsvineyardandwinery.com

Live Music with Enigma 6:00 – 9:00 p.m

The Iowa Wine Trail sponsors The Eastern Iowa Wine Festival

Black Horse Inn, Sherrill, IA http://www.easterniowawinefestival.com

This is an “All Iowa” event featuring Iowa wines from across eastern Iowa, food and bakery products from the local area as well as Iowa musicians, music groups and Iowa artists. Festival Entrance is $10 and includes a Souvenir Wine Glass and program.

Tasting Tickets Available for Sale, Wine by the Glass Available by Sale. Bottles are also available for sale to take home or you are welcome to open the bottle and enjoy with some food from the festival.

Events at the festival include:

Live Music Performance by the Americana Polka Band and the Free-4-the-Haulin Band, Amateur Wine Making Competition and Award Ceremony, Artisan Products available for sale

Grape Escape Winery, Pleasantville, IA http://www.grapeescapewineryia.com

Wine-In-Movies, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, dusk

Dale Valley Vineyard, Stuart, Iowa, http://www.dalevalleyvineyard.com

WINESTOCK

Wine, Music and Fun! Six bands from Noon – 9:00 p.m.

Eagles Landing Winery, Marquette, Iowa http://www.eagleslandingwinery.com

Good Ol’ Summertime Wine-A-Rita Weekend 10:00 a.m.

Emma Big Bears 140th Birthday, samples of Wine-A-Ritas. Try a sample of the summer drink everyone is talking about!

Also, Live music, Sunday, noon – 3:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 19

Tassel Ridge Winery, Leighton, Iowa http://www.tasselridge.com

Asian Fusion Wine & Food Pairing Dinner
Wine Tasting: 6:00 p.m.
Dinner Seating: 6:30 p.m.
Price: $55 per person, plus tax
Join us for an Asian-inspired dinner beginning with Chef Hang’s special spring rolls and Vietnamese steam balls followed by spicy sour chicken soup, Asian grilled pork tenderloin with hoisin sauce, jasmine rice, grilled bok choi, and sticky rice with mango. This 5-course dinner will be paired with select Tassel Ridge wines. Call the Winery at 641.672.WINE (9463), advance reservations required by Wednesday, July 15.

Summerset Winery, Indianola, Iowa http://www.summersetwine.com

Listen to the Bob Pace Band with Barb Miller from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the winery.  Over the years Bob has performed nearly every genre of music–from hard hitting Rock n’ Roll to soothing acoustic solos; from down home Country songs to sensitive ballads, but its playing the blues that is his real passion.  www.bobpaceband.com
 $3 cover per person or $10 a car.  Case Club members get in free.

Snus Hill Winery, Madrid, http://www.snushillwine.com

Ashanti, Live music, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Park Farm Winery, Bankston, Iowa http://www.parkfarmwinery.com

Toast & Jam, live music, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Prairie Moon Winery, Ames, Iowa http://www.prairiemoonwinery.com

Amy and Adams, Folk, 3:00 – 6:00 pm.

Tassel Ridge Winery, Leighton, Iowa          http://www.tasselridgewinery.com

See new mechanical grape harvestor, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

John Ernest Vineyards & Winery, Tama, Iowa  http://www.johnernestvineyards.com

Holiday Road, live , music, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, July 22

Entries due for Eastern Iowa Wine Club Amateur Wine Competition, Benton County Fair, Vinton, Iowa

Contact Martin Blind at 319-551-2075 for more information.

Have fun in Midwest Wine Country! Find a bottle or two that you really enjoy and buy a case to take home. It’s the way to support your local wineries.

Are you collecting all 15 goodies on the Heart of Iowa Wine Trail? The Heart of Iowa Culinary Celebration runs through October 1st. Hit a few wineries  on the trail this weekend. Details at www.heartofiowawinetrial.com.

Looking ahead:  Iowa wines will be front and center at the Iowa State Fair — August 13 – 23. Make your reservations now for the Wine and Prime Dinner. It is the fine dining experience at the fair and features prime rib and your favorite Iowa wine from the Iowa Wine and Cheese Garden. There is limited seating, so make your reservations now — 515/ 262-8323 or toll-free (800) 383- 1682. You’ll enjoy it!

Cheers!
Barbara Rasko

Publisher

Make Mine Wine

http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com

Celebrate July 4th at a Winery

Taste wine!

Listen to live music!

Dance!

Share a bottle of your favorite wine!

Enjoy delicious food!

Play lawn games!

Entertain your out-of-state … or local friends!

Ooh and aah over the fireworks!

Hang out with people who want to have a good time!

Here are a few of the lively 4th of July events at local wineries:

July 4 Summerset Winery, Indianola,Iowa, 2:00 – 8:00 p;.m., Live Music, good food, great wine, awesome time!

July 4th. Celebrate with Red, White, & Blue, BBQ & Lawn Games at Tassel Ridge Winery, Leighton, Iowa. Lawn games: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m . Lunch: 12–1p $15+ tax. Grilled steak sandwiches, crunchy coleslaw, cookies.  Reserv req by Thurs, July 2.

Plans for the 4th? Iowa’s 6 wine trails beckon. Stop during vacation or plan a special getaway. Locations here: http://tinyurl.com/ledoka

July 4th, Grape Escape Winery, Pleasantville, Iowa. Smoked Ribs, Potluck (7 pm), Wind Talkers/Nicolas Cage (movie on the barn), The movie is inspired by the true story of the Navajo soldiers whose courage and sacrifices helped win the war in the Pacific. Fireworks following the movie! Bring covered dish to share, lawn chairs.

July 4th, Southern Hills Winery, Osceola, Iowa. BBQ Sandwiches, wine tasting, Music by Katdaddy55, 6:30-9:30p. Fireworks at dusk.

Cedar Valley Winery, Batavia, Iowa. Grand Opening, Sat. July 4th 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun. July 5th 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Six different wines and food.

Loess Hills Winery, Crescent, Iowa. Live Music with Chris Saub 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. July 4th. Details: http://www.loesshillsvineyardandwinery.com

July 4th Ribs on the River Fest at Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, Decorah, Iowa. Details at http://www.wwwinery.com.

Dale Valley Vineyard & Winery, Stuart, Iowa. July 4th, Live music by Brother Tucker – 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. Details at http://www.dalevalleyvineyard.com.

Check the website for your favorite winery — some will be closed on the 4th of July — and many have live music on Friday or Sunday.

Remember: leave your pets at home — and do not bring acoholic beverages. Buy a bottle of wine to share at the event and purchase  a bottle or case of your favorite wine to take home! Remember, too, you can order many favorite wines and have them shipped to your home, or as a gift to friends, from http://www.buyiowawines.com – run by our good friend Matt Wiskus at Muddy River Wine Company at Coralville!

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko, Publisher

Explore Midwest Wine Country when you follow @makeminewine on Twitter, http://www.twitter.com

Explore Iowa’s Wine Trails

Over 50 wineries are scattered along Iowa’s Wine Trails and a visit to any of one of them is a mini-vacation from the everyday world. Treat yourself to stops at several wineries along one of Iowa’s 6 wine trails and experience for a great weekend getaway. There is so much to do in Iowa Wine Country. For starters, you can:

Taste award-winning wines

Tour a winery

Stroll through the vineyard

Meet the winemaker

Take pictures for the Make Mine Wine Midwest Wine Country photo contest (scenic, people, still-life, black and white — deadline October 1, 2009 to makeminewine@mchsi.com )

Develop your wine-tasting palate

Pick up some delicious recipes and wine and food pairing suggestions

Relax on the balcony or porch and soak in the scenery

Sign up to harvest grapes — and then do some stomping

Hang out with friends and

Listen to live music.

Hop on a trail while on vacation or schedule a special getaway. For more information on Iowa’s wine trails, click on the links below.

Amana Colonies Wine Trail — 5 wineries in the Amanas —www.amanacolonies.org

Great River Road Wine Trail — 9 wineries in iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin — www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org

Heart of Iowa Wine Trail — 16 wineries in central Iowa —  www. heartofiowawinetrail.com

The Iowa Wine Trail — 8 wineries in northeast Iowa — www.iowawinetrail.com

Scenic Rivers Wine Trail — 15 wineries in southeast Iowa, Illinois and Missouri — www.scenicriverswine.com

Western Iowa Wine Trail – 7 wineries in western Iowa — www.westerniowawinetrail.com

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko

Make Mine Wine

Find Weekend Inspiration (With Wine!) Here

Are you out there having fun? Your local wineries look forward to seeing you. There’s no end to the fun you can have!

Heart of Iowa Wine Trail Receive 2 Heart of Iowa Wine Trail wine glasses when you complete your passport ($25 each) with stamps from each of the wineries on the trail. Sample wine, find your favorites and take some home to enjoy. Between now and October 1st you may participate in the Heart of Iowa Culinary Celebration – purchase an apron ($40 each) and receive a free culinary item from each winery (15 in all). For more info see www.heartofiowawinetrail.com.

Purchase tickets now for one of the upcoming Wine & Prime Dinners at the Iowa State Fair. Prime rib and the fixings, along with your favorite Iowa wine from the Iowa Wine & Cheese Garden is a first-rate fine dining experience at the Iowa State Fair, August 13 – 23). Call 515/262-8323 for more information.

Scenic Rivers Grape & Wine, Summer Romance in the Vineyards, takes place this weekend, June 27 & 28 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. Download a map with the 15 wineries and check for details at www.scenicriverswine.com

Saturday, June 27th, downtown Adel is the scene for the Raccoon Valley Wine Festival. Groove with Tony Valdez sample and buy wine, explore the food vendor booths. 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

It’s Music in the Barn, Sunday, June 28th,  with Dave Moore at Wallace Winery. 2:00 – 4:30, West Branch Iowa.

Tassel Ridge Winery’s 2nd Annual Croquet Tournament is this Saturday, June 27th, in Leighton, Iowa. Stop by for wine and BBQ. Enjoy the artist’s work on display. Relax and have fun!

There are plenty of opportunities to hear the live music at Snus Hill Winery, Madrid, Iowa. Front Porch Fridays are from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. and Snus Sundays are 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Sip wine and relax!  www.snushillwine.com

Rumor Has It will be on the big outdoor screen (10′ x 20′ on the side of the barn) at Grape Escape Winery, Pleasantville, Iowa, this Saturday night, June 27th. Free popcorn during the movie – bring a chair and, if you like, snacks. Purchase wine from Grape Escape and have fun!  Movie begins at dark — around 8:45/9:00. (Must be 21 and no pets.)

Dale Valley Vineyard at Stuart, Iowa, features live music every other Saturday from 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. – check the website for dates and bands at www.dalevalleyvineyard.com.

John Ernest Vineyard & Winery, Tama, Iowa, invites you to join them for live music and wine. Their outdoor entertainment schedule is posted at www.johnernestvineyard.com  Coming up is Major Day on Sunday, June 28th from 3:00 – 6:00 and Route 66 on Friday, July 3rd from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Friday night, June 26th,  One Night Stand will be performing R&B and Jazz at Prairie Moon Winery, Ames, Iowa.

Jasper Winery, Des Moines, Iowa, has Thursday night music events, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.. This week you can hear Tony Valdez, play lawn games and purchase wine, burgers, brats, etc.

Friday Night Wine Downs at White Oak Vineyards, Cambridge, Iowa, feature live music from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Details at www.whiteoakvineyards.com

Sunset in the Vineyard at Penoach Winery, Adel, Iowa, is a great place to listen to live music on Friday nights. This week it is Louderbox in Concert, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Details at www.penoach.com

Fireside Winery, Marengo, Iowa, hosts their Summer music series from 7 pm – 10 every Friday night.

Sunday, June 28th, Brich & Killion will be at Sugar Clay Winery, Thurman, Iowa, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

SEMBA Bluegrass Jam takes place at Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, Decorah, Iowa, on Sunday, June 28. Details at www.wwwinery.com.

Park Farm Winery’s Toast and Jam gets underway every Sunday from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. It’s a end-of-the-weekend wind-down in Bankston, Iowa.

There are plenty of choices for fun at wineries – all good!

Mark your calendars for next weekends 4th of July Celebration at Summerset Winery, Indianola, Iowa. Be there between 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. for live music, good food, great wine and fun people. www.summersetwine.com

 Of course, you can catch Sunday Tunes at Summerset Winery, Indianola, Iowa, every Sunday, year round from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Did you know, not far from Summerset Winery at  Carlisle, Iowa, (just off the Highway 5 by-pass) has an old-fashioned 4th of July Parade (9:30 a.m.) and a day of activities in the park. Have some fun in Carlisle, then head to Summerset Winery. That night, the spectacular Fireworks display in Carlisle will put a big exclamation mark on a wonderful day!

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko Publisher, Make Mine Wine www.makeminewinemagazine.com

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Iowa Wineries Say, “Let Us Entertain You!”

It’s easy to stay indoors when Old Man Winter visits, but you can raise your happiness level when you step into the warm, inviting world of Midwest Wine Country. Our Iowa Wineries have planned plenty of fun for you over the next few weeks, so get out and enjoy!

Friday, January 30th
Van & Bonnie’s FREE Chocolate Breakfast at the Hy-Vee Conference Center., West Des Moines 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Sample chocolate from: Tassel Ridge Winery, Southern Hills Winery, The Iowa Machine Shed Restaurant, The Goertz Haus Gallery, Teacups & Tiarras, Calico Shops & Tymes Remembered Tea Room, Lillie Mae Chocolates, Scheel’s Fudge Factory, Suzette’s, A Celtic Tradition, Van Veen Candies, Over The Top, Chocolate Dreams & Peppermint Wishes, , Flarah’s Cheesecake, Maggie Moos Ice Cream & Treatery, Donutland, Cookies By Design, Cold Stone Creamery, The Boy Scouts, Anderson Erickson Dairy, Sweet Treats Unlimited, The Sweet Binney’s, Twin Girls Gardens, Beautiful Blessings, Sweets By JoAnn,Taste To Go & Catering, Hy-Vee, the Hy-Vee Conference Center, Xocai – The Healthy Chocolate, Java Joes, Cake Me, I’m Yours and Beaverdale Confections.

The Jive For Five Brass Quintet will be performing on stage from 7-8AM during the Chocolate Breakfast. More info at: http://tinyurl.com/b8owaf

Saturday, January 31st
Wild Women on Wine
Summerset Winery, Indianola, Iowa 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Ladies, Summerset invites you to discover your seductess within! Attend a night you won’t soon forget… Just in time for Valentine’s Day we are offering a treat for you and one your men will appreciate later… This event is sure to be a fun, frolicking evening of frivolity & favors. Jen Kees with Kees Camp will be giving a pole dancing demonstration along with striptease lessons and, yes, the guests will be invited to participate!

Ultra Salon will provide instruction on hair and make-up techniques for the bedroom, a massage therapist will give massage demonstrations, Judge’s Signature Catering will serve up delicacies with an aphrodisiac flair and vendors will be showing adult themed products, candles and an array of other goodies for you to purchase. Cost is $45 per person. FOR WOMEN ONLY! Reservations are required. Call the winery at 515-961-3545 to order tickets. Tickets are non-refundable.

Tuesday, February 3rd
Women’s Rewined Series- Mirror, Mirror on the Wall – Who is that??
Jasper Winery, Des Moines, Iowa 6p.m. -8pm
Even Snow White is aging but with Tomorrow’s Health here – we’re sure to learn how to keep the wicked witch’s wrinkles away! $20 -, Hors d’oeuvres and glass of wine included

Thursday, February 5
An Evening of Wine & Chocolate
Tassel Ridge Winery, Leighton, Iowa 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Find the perfect gift for that special someone in your life. Enjoy samples of chocolate delights, from sweet to savory, paired with Tassel Ridge wines while listening to special music by Mary Foss, principal harpist of the Des Moines Symphony will be performing at the event. . Our experts will be on hand to assist you with a romantic wine gift for your sweetheart, or create your own special gift basket with our fine wines, chocolates, and wine-related items. Complimentary. (641) 672-WINE

February 6th
Heart of Iowa Wine Trail- Tropical Wine Festival
Friday, February 6th – 6:00 p.m. -9:00 p.m,
15 Central Iowa Wineries
Des Moines Botanical Center, $25 in advance from any Heart of Iowa Wine Trail winery, $30 at the door, includes commemorative glass. http://www.heartofiowawinetrail.com.

February 14th
Valentine’s Day
Jasper Winery, Des Moines, IA 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Flipside! …will be playing/
Guaranteed good time! $50 per couple, includes admission, bottle of wine of choice, and complimentary appetizers.Call the winery at 515-282-9463 to reserve your spot.
A perfect way to spend the holiday!

Saturday, February 14th
Valentine’s Dinner
Southern Hills Winery, Osceola, Iowa
5:30pm- Wine Tasting 6:30pm-Dinner with Southern Hills Wines.
Call the Winery for more details at 641-342-2808.

Saturday, February 14th
Valentine’s Ball
Summerset Winery 6:00 – p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Experience the romance of the winery Summerset style on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, 2009. Your special evening will begin at 6:00 p.m with a wine reception followed by dinner catered by Christiani’s VIP Catering. Tickets are $55 per person and also include a bottle of wine, a gift and dancing to live music performed by Bunky Marlow Band featuring Janey Hooper.

Appetizers and wine tasting from 6:00 – 7:00 featuring:
* European Cheese Table featuring cheeses from America and Europe
* Assorted Crackers
* Relish Tray and Dip
* Grilled Asparagus and Mushroom Caps marinated in Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh Lemons and Spice

Dinner served at 7:00 featuring Christiani’s Verona Buffet:
* Christiani’s Signature Garden Salad with House Dressing
* Chicken Parmesan
* Carving Station with USDA Choice Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream Sauce
* Cheese Stuffed Ravioli with Basil Marinara
* Italian Roast Potatoes
* Green Beans with Pimento
* Fresh Baked Rolls and Butter
* Coffee, Cream & Sugar

* Assorted Desserts and Miniature Sweets

Dancing with your sweetie to the Bunky Marlow Band featuring Janey Hooper from 8:00 – 10:30.
Reservations are required. Call the winery at 515-961-3545 to order tickets.
Tickets are non-refundable.

Saturday, February 14th
Valentine Dinner 
Tassel Ridge Winery, Leighton, IA
Wine Tasting: 7:00 p.m. & Dinner Seating at 7:30 p.m.Celebrate Valentine’s Day by treating your sweetheart to an exquisite dinner at Tassel Ridge Winery. This five-course dinner will feature Prime Rib and Chocolate Créme Brûlée, along with other delectable items. Each course will be paired with a Tassel Ridge wine chosen specially to enhance the flavor of both the food and the wine. Advanced reservations are required by Wednesday, February 11. Cost: $60 per person, plus tax. (641) 672-WINE

February 21, 2009 6:30 p.m.
JEV’s Annual Winter Wine & Dine Dinner
John Ernest Vineyard, Tama, Iowa
Enjoy a fine meal paired with fine wine and a night of music provided by Rob Lumbard.
Menu:
*Bacon Rollups
*Mixed green salad with diced red apples, crumbled cheese, dried cranberries and chopped walnuts
*Choice of herbed sirloin tip roast OR stuffed pork loin
*Parsely Red Potatoes
*Broccoli Spears with melted cheese
*Wheat Dinner Rolls
*Cheesecake for dessert
Tickets are $45/person or save on a table of 8 at $350. Reserve at 641-484-8048

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko
Publisher
Make Mine Wine
http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com

Time for Unique Gifts, Entertainment and Fun at the Wineries!

John Ernest Vineyard & Winery Holiday Celebration, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday, December 20

Music, holiday spirit and wine makes it a divine time to visit the winery. You (and your out of town guests) can tour the winery at Tama, sample JEV wines, nibble on holiday treats and enjoy warm, mulled Cranberry Apple Cider. Save 10% on wine, gift baskets and holiday items. http://www.johnernestvineyard.com.

 

Summerset Winery Holiday Open House, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday, December 20 and Wednesday 24

Guests in town this weekend? Take them to Summerset Winery for some sipping, shopping and munching! They are serving warm, mulled wine and delicisou holiday treats along with special discounts on store merchandise. Buy a special gift – your Parrot Head friends would appreciate tickets to Jimmy’s Buffet on January 17^th and you may know just the right person to give tickets to for the January 31^st Wild Women on Wine Luncheon! Summerset Winery is between Des Moines and Indianola.  http://www.summersetwine.com.

 

Little Swan Lake Winery, Christmas Cheer, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, December 20 Billie James and Glenn Henriksen entertain. Esterville. http://www.lslwinery.com

 

The 2009 Heart of Iowa Wine Trail Passport is a unique gift motivating folks to explore the 15 wineries within 60 miles of Des Moines. The passport is $25 + tax and available at the area wineries. Check it out at http://www.heartofiowawinetrail.com.

 

Tassel Ridge Winery has a fine selection of wine-related gifts, custom wine labels, chocolates, Friesian Farms Cheese, Wine and Food Gift Baskets and more. Visit the winery just off of Highway 163 at Exit 220. http://www.tasselridgewinery.com.

 

I’ll be speaking about Southern Hills Winery’s wines, how to taste and the magazine at the Iowa Favorites store at Valley West Mall, this Sunday, December 21^st at 4:00 p.m.  Please stop in and say hi!

This holiday season, I encourage you to buy local. Our Midwest Wine Country depends on it! Thank you.

By the way, Make Mine Wine is also a great, inexpensive, year-round Christmas gift for wine-lovers. You can order at http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com.

 

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko, Publisher

Make Mine Wine magazine

http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com

Iowa State Fair Special: 10 Issues of Make Mine Wine for Price of 8!

When people start a subscription to Make Mine Wine they are often curious about what they have missed in previous issues. The Summer 2008 is the 7^th issue, and previous magazines carried great articles on how to host a wine tasting party, which wine glass to use, the list of 2007 winning wines at the 1^st Mid-American Wine Competition, The Iowa Wine Trail in Eastern Iowa, the Western Iowa Wine Trail, the Heart of Iowa Wine Trail, Hermann Missouri Wine Trail, and articles on several Midwest Wine Country wineries. We’ve provided solid information on how to start a vineyard, how much to poor, and so much more. New subscribers also missed recipes such as our Cheesy Pepperoni Squares, Beef-and-Cheese Triangles, Prosciutto-Asparagus Eggs Benedict, Coconut-Orange Caramel Rolls and Country-Style Potato Casserole.

 

Several subscribers have told me that they keep every issue to refer to again and again. And many people have found that Make Mine Wine is a much-appreciated birthday or holiday gift.

 

During the Iowa State Fair, August 7 – 17^th, I am giving everyone a change to own the entire collection, and I’ve decided to offer it to my faithful Blog audience too. Here’s the deal.

 

I’ll pay the $4.00 postage and send you the 6 back issues, beginning with the Preview Issue published in July, 2006. You will also receive 4 new issues, beginning with the current Summer 2008. Instead of paying $30 for the 10 issues, you’ll pay just $24.00 (plus tax, if you live in Iowa).

 

I don’t know how long the back issues will last, so please sign up right away.

 

Send me a note between now and August 20^th (please print your name and address):

 

State Fair Issues – 10 for 8

 

Name

Street Address

City, State, Zip

Phone Number

 

Send your check or credit card information — $25.44 (includes tax) if you live in Iowa,  anywhere else, $25.00.

 

The address is Make Mine Wine, P.O. Box 696, Indianola, IA 50125.

 

This is a very good deal – please reply today to guarantee that each issue is still available. Of course, if you’re at the fair, stop at the Iowa Wine Garden and we’ll sign you up … and send a bill. Thanks.

 

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko

Publisher

Make Mine Wine

http://www.MakeMineWinemagazine.com

Visit the Central Iowa Wineries and Create Memorable Experiences

Recently, several people have told me about their visits to the Heart of Iowa Wine Trail and every one has interesting and favorable comments. The comments from a friend today reminded me of the variety and quaintness of each stop, the hospitality of the winemakers, and the fun of trying new wines.

 

She told me the two of them set out on a dreary, rainy morning this weekend to visit Central Iowa wineries and they had a great time. She particularly liked Snus Hill Winery near Madrid. Since she adores cats, the fun “cat face” logo on the bottles were a hit. At the beautiful tasting bar, they tried some wines that were not what they would normally drink. She liked and bought the light white, Whisker White. 

 

Next they ventured to Adel to Penoach Vineyard & Winery. He enjoyed the setting – a 1900-era farmstead with 10 acres of vines and a barn restored to a winery. They visited with winemaker Stan Olsen and found unique gifts in the Gift Shop. They are just learning about red wine, so tasted a few, and found Iowa St. Vincent to their liking.

 

A stop at Dale Valley Winery near Stuart proved to be another favorite. Prairie grass fields purchased in Guthrie County, Iowa in 1853  became the home site for John Lonsdale and his family. Thirty local residents put their time and talents together to build a school, and soon thereafter Dale City was born. Today, the school house is home to Dale Valley Winery. My friends tried the wines, and enjoyed the tour of the winery and the taste of Solistice, a unique blush with a sweet fruit flavor.

 

Their day-away in Midwest Wine Country was enjoyable and gave them a great chance to relax and visit — probably even giggle and laugh! She said they will plan another day soon to visit a few more “charming” Iowa wineries.

Another friend and her husband stopped by Little Swan Lake Winery at Estherville in Northern Iowa and heard some live music, drank some wine, and had buffalo sandwiches and ice cream. It’s a favorite stop for the locals and she said it was easy to see why … everyone was having a good time.

 

 

 

 

If you are filling your basket with the Picnic in the Vines event on the Heart of Iowa Wine Trail, remember it continues through July 31st.Otherwise, pack a picnic lunch, and get out and appreciate the lush scenery while you tour the wineries and sample the wines presented by our local winemakers.

 

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko, Publisher

Make Mine Wine

http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com

Events at Local Wineries are Fun!

I am amazed when I meet people who are in the dark when it comes to Iowa’s growing wine industry. Iowa now ranks 14th in the nation for the number of wineries in a state. The wineries are constantly improving the quality of their wines … and more and more people are tasting and finding Iowa wines that are just right for any meal or occasion.

 

The wineries are also wonderful places to go for events. Each week crowds gather at local wineries for music events, fund-raisers, or pairing dinners. Folks take their out-of-town guests to tour wineries and taste wine.

 

Why? I can answer that in one word.  FUN!

 

This Friday night, June 28th, there are two new events, Save the Ta-Tas Breast Cancer Fundraiser at Snus Hill Winery, Madrid, and Comedy Night with Elliott Treat at Southern Hills Winery, Osceola.

 

Saturday and Sunday is the Spring Open House at Eagle City Winery in Iowa Falls.

 

Summerset Winery, Indianola; Prairie Moon Winery, Ames;  Sugar Clay Winery, Thurman; Snus Hills Winery, Madrid; Tabor Homes Vineyard and Winery, Baldwin; and White Oak Vineyards & Winery, Elkhart will have live music over the weekend. Check the events list at MakeMineWinemagazine.com for details.

 

By the way, you must make reservations by tomorrow, Thursday, June 29^th, for the July 1^st Red, White and Blue Summer Celebration (a wine and food pairing event) with Tassel Ridge Winery in Leighton. It is a kick-off for July and sounds like a lot of fun. You can play old-fashioned yard games and enjoy grilled steak sandwiches, corn-on-the-cob, fresh fruit and strawberry shortcake. This is your change to drink wine-a-ritas – and of course, the other fine Tassel Ridge wines. www.tasselridge.com.

 

 

I was on a little wine tour yesterday with a friend from Chicago and heard that a lot of folks have been bringing their picnic baskets to the wineries for the Picnic in the Vines. The Heart of Iowa Wine Trail event continues through July 31st. Take the Make Mine Wine Wine Score Card (download for free from the Make Mine Wine Website) with you to record your favorites.

 

If you’re going to be in Southern Illinois this weekend, swing by Blue Sky Vineyard at Mankanda. It is part of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and is hosting two events this weekend. An Art Exhibit Featuring Andrea LeBeau will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 Friday night, and the Chamber Music and an Art Fair will be from 2:00 – 5:00 on Sunday, June 29th. More details are available at www.blueskyvineyard.com.

 

This weekend you can also participate in The Epicurean Experience – A Food & Wine Pairing, at Lynfred Winery in Roselle, Illinois. Reservations are required for this 6-course adventure. www.lynfredwinery.com.

 

Have fun this weekend at a Midwest Wine Country winery! And … take some photos for our Midwest Wine Country Photo Competition too!

 

Cheers!

Barbara Rasko

Publisher

Make Mine Wine

http://www.makeminewinemagazine.com

All work and no play … you know what they say … so head out to a winery and have some fun!

Spring in Midwest Wine Country can be stressful with the relentless threat of thunderstorms, floods and tornadoes. Neighbors help neighbors and a strong sense of caring starts the healing process. My home state of Iowa has been hit particularly hard this year, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones, had homes damaged or destroyed or seen recently-planted fields turn into lakes.

 

If there is an upside to the fierce weather, it is the lush green landscape!

 

If you need an escape this weekend, or next, I recommend you get out and enjoy your close-to-home Midwest Wine Country events.  Check out www.makeminewinemagazine.com for a more complete list of all of the events. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are hopping at the wineries!

 

Here are some suggestions for the weekend of June 20^th – 22^nd:

 

Imagine a beautiful lake, rimmed with white tents, live jazz, gourmet pork creations and Iowa wine. What is it? The not-to-be-missed, Second Annual SWINE Festival at the Ankeny Campus of Des Moines Area Community College, Saturday, June 21^st from 4:00 p.m. -9:00 p.m.

 

You can sample 10 gourmet pork dishes created by area Chefs and Iowa wine samplings from Cedar Ridge Winery (Cedar Rapids), Eagle City Winery (Iowa Falls), Grape Escape Winery (Pleasantville), Jasper Winery (Newton), Madison County Winery (St. Charles, IA), Park Farm Winery (Bankston), Santa Maria Winery (Willey), Snus Hill Winery (Madrid), Southern Hills Winery (Osceola), Summerset Winery (Indianola), Sutliff Cider Company (Lisbon), Tabor Home Winery (Baldwin), Tassel Ridge Winery (Leighton), and White Oak Vineyards (Cambridge).

 

Janey Hooper will entertain with her mix of jazz, blues and rhythm and blues. For $35 you can taste, sample and listen – and receive 1 free bottle of wine (your choice). Advance tickets are $30 at iowatix.com. The event will take place rain or shine.

 

The Heart of Iowa Wine Trail event, Picnic Time in the Vines, continues through July 31^st, at 15 Central Iowa wineries. For more information, check out heartofiowawinetrail.com.

 

Tassel Ridge Winery at Leighton invites you to a Wine and Food Pairing Dinner, Sunday, June 22^nd. It is a great opportunity to try Caribbean flavors paired with wine. Reserve by June 19^th. www.tasselridge.com

 

Enjoy live music with your wine on Sunday, June 22^nd. It’s The Bar Gators at Southern Hills Winery near Osceola, www.shwinery.com. Mike and Amy Finders Band will entertain (Bluegrass) in Ames at Prairie Moon Winery, www.prairiemoonwinery.com. You can listen to Latin jazz with Tony Valdez at Snus Hill Vineyards and Winery, Madrid, www.snushillwine.com. Head out to Summerset Winery in Indianola to hear Perry Weber & the Devilles. The Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Association will hold at Jam session at Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, www.wwwwinery.com, in Decorah. Tabor Homes Vineyards at Baldwin (www.Taborwines.com) will feature live music by Bryce Janey. On Solid Ground will play in Thurman at Sugar Clay Winery, www.sugarclarywinery.com.

 

If you’re going to be in Michigan, don’t miss Diva’s Uncorked – an evening devoted to women and wine, presented by the Old Mission Wine Trail. See the details at www.wineriesofoldmission.com.

 

 

Cheers!

Barbara

Make Mine Wine

www.MakeMineWinemagazine.com