Best 8 Wineries in South Dakota: Discover the Top Tasting Rooms and Vineyards

ByTony Parker Last Updated:

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of wine, but the state has a growing wine industry with several wineries and vineyards worth visiting. From the Black Hills to the prairies, South Dakota’s wineries offer a unique experience for wine lovers.

History of Wineries in South Dakota

South Dakota’s winemaking history dates back to the early 1800s when French fur traders first introduced grapevines to the region. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that commercial winemaking became a reality in South Dakota. The Nygaard family established South Dakota’s first winery, Valiant Vineyards, in 1996.

South Dakota’s cold climate favors fruit wines and wines made from French-American hybrid grapes such as Seyval Blanc, Marechal Foch, and Frontenac. The University of Minnesota has played a significant role in developing grape varieties that can withstand the harsh winters of the Midwest. These grape varieties have helped South Dakota wineries produce award-winning wines.

Today, South Dakota has several wineries that are producing quality wines. Prairie Berry Winery and Naked Winery are two of the most popular wineries in the state. Prairie Berry Winery, located in Hill City, serves up South Dakota-made wine and gourmet food. Naked Winery, also located in Hill City, is known for its bold and adventurous wines.

South Dakota wineries offer visitors the opportunity to taste and learn about the winemaking process. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, and some even offer training programs for aspiring winemakers. As the wine industry in South Dakota continues to grow, it is sure to become a popular destination for wine lovers.

Top Wineries in South Dakota

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but the state is home to some fantastic wineries. From the Black Hills to the Glacial Lakes, South Dakota’s wineries are producing unique and delicious wines that are worth a try. Here are some of the top wineries in South Dakota:

Prairie Berry Winery

Located in Hill City, Prairie Berry Winery is one of the most popular wineries in South Dakota. This family-owned winery has been producing award-winning wines for over 25 years and offers a variety of fruit wines, grape wines, and even hard cider. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and delicious food at the winery’s on-site restaurant. 

The winery offers a wide selection of wines made from locally sourced grapes and fruits. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Prairie Berry Winery also has a location in Sioux Falls.

Website: https://prairieberry.com/

Address: 23837 US-385, Hill City, SD 57745, United States

Valiant Vineyards

Valiant Vineyards is located in Vermillion, South Dakota, and is one of the oldest wineries in the state. The winery offers a variety of wines made from South Dakota-grown grapes, as well as fruits and honey. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and the staff is knowledgeable and welcoming.

Website: https://valiantvineyards.us/

Address: 1500 W Main St, Vermillion, SD 57069, United States

Wilde Prairie Winery

Wilde Prairie Winery is located in Brandon, South Dakota, and is known for its award-winning wines. The winery offers a variety of wines made from locally sourced grapes and fruits. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the staff is knowledgeable and passionate about wine.

Website: https://wildprairiewinery.com/

Address: 48052 259th St, Brandon, SD 57005, United States

Schade Vineyard

Schade Vineyard is located in Volga, South Dakota, and is known for its high-quality wines. The winery offers a variety of wines made from cold-hardy grapes, as well as fruits and honey. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Website: https://schadevineyard.com/

Address: 21095 463rd Ave, Volga, SD 57071, United States

Firehouse Wine Cellars

Firehouse Wine Cellars is located in Rapid City, South Dakota, and is known for its unique and delicious wines. The winery offers a wide selection of wines made from grapes, fruits, and honey. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Website: http://www.firehousewinecellars.com/

Address: 620 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States

Belle Joli Winery

Belle Joli Winery is located in Sturgis, South Dakota, and is known for its award-winning wines. The winery offers a variety of wines made from locally sourced grapes and fruits. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Website: https://www.bellejoli.com/

Address: 3951 Vanocker Canyon Rd, Sturgis, SD 57785, United States

Humble Hill Winery

Humble Hill Winery is located in Bushnell, South Dakota, and is known for its delicious wines. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes, fruits, and honey. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Website: http://humblehillwinery.com/

Address: 25219 485th Ave, Garretson, SD 57030, United States

Naughti Wines

Naughti Wines is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and is known for its unique and delicious wines. The winery offers a wide selection of wines made from grapes, fruits, and honey. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

Website: https://sickntwistedbrewery.com/

Address: 6544 23851 US-385, Hill City, SD 57745, United States

Wine Tasting in South Dakota

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of wine tasting, but the state has a growing number of wineries and vineyards that offer unique and delicious wines. Wine lovers who are looking for a new and exciting tasting experience should definitely consider visiting South Dakota.

Tasting Rooms

Most wineries in South Dakota have tasting rooms where visitors can sample the wines that are produced on-site. These tasting rooms are often cozy and inviting, and they offer a chance to try a variety of wines in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Knowledgeable staff members are usually on hand to answer questions and offer recommendations.

Wine and Food Pairings

Many wineries in South Dakota offer food pairings to go along with their wines. These pairings can include cheeses, chocolates, and other desserts that are designed to complement the flavors of the wines. Some wineries even offer full meals that are paired with their wines, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

Wine Tours

For those who want to learn more about the winemaking process and the history of winemaking in South Dakota, wine tours are a great option. These tours usually include a visit to the vineyards, a tour of the winery, and a tasting of the wines that are produced on-site. Some tours even include a picnic lunch or other special activities.

Whether you are a seasoned wine taster or a beginner, South Dakota’s wineries and vineyards offer a unique and entertaining tasting experience. The wine selections are diverse, and there is sure to be something to please every palate. So, if you are looking for a fun and delicious way to spend an afternoon or evening, head to one of South Dakota’s many wineries and vineyards for a tasting you won’t soon forget.

Wine Varieties in South Dakota

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of wine, but the state has a growing wine industry that produces unique and flavorful wines. The state’s cold climate favors fruit wines and wines made from French-American hybrid grapes such as Seyval Blanc, Marechal Foch, and Frontenac.

Fruit Wines

Fruit wines are a popular selection in South Dakota. These wines are made from a variety of fruits including strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. One of the most popular fruit wines is the mango wine slushie, which is a refreshing and sweet drink perfect for hot summer days. Prairie Berry Winery in Hill City is known for its fruit wines, and visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors including strawberry, raspberry, and rhubarb.

Estate Wines

Estate wines are wines made from grapes grown on the winery’s property. These wines have a unique flavor profile that reflects the terroir of the region. Schade Vineyard & Winery in Volga, South Dakota, produces estate wines that are made from grapes grown on their property. Visitors can enjoy a variety of estate wines including Marechal Foch and Frontenac.

Hybrid Varietals

Hybrid varietals are grape varieties that are created by crossing two or more grape species. These varieties are often more resistant to cold climates and disease, making them a popular choice for wineries in South Dakota. The University of Minnesota has developed a number of hybrid varietals that are well-suited for cold climates. Valiant Vineyards Winery in Vermillion, South Dakota, produces wines made from hybrid varieties such as Seyval Blanc.

In conclusion, South Dakota’s wine industry is growing and producing unique and flavorful wines. Visitors to the state can enjoy a variety of fruit wines, estate wines, and wines made from hybrid varietals. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a unique experience, South Dakota’s wineries have something for everyone.