I'm always looking for ways to save money. Tonight I'm going to take you on a tour that'll make you feel like you've traveled to California minus the airfare. I'm talking about Minnesota's Wine Country.
The wineries themselves are some of the most picturesque places in the state and many of them are within a few hours of the Twin Cities.
We picked four places to feature tonight. The first three like to get the public to help pick the grapes. It's a great way to experience the beauty of the wine country and feel like you're part of the wine making process. Many of these places provide lunch for those who volunteer. The grape picks usually take place in late September or early October.
If you're interested in helping out here are the links to the wineries mentioned in tonight's story:
Alexis Bailly Vineyard -- Hastings
651-437-1413
Cannon River Winery – Cannon Falls
507-763-7400
Falconer Vineyards – Red Wing
651-388-8849
Scenic Valley Winery -- Lanesboro
1-888-965-0250
The Three Rivers Wine Trail is Minnesota's first wine trail featuring six different wineries. It's a good place to start if you're looking for a tour that's already laid out for you. These wineries have something for everyone and provide an excuse to get away from it all, without having to spend a bunch of money.
The other interesting part of a Minnesota wine tour is the wine, of course. Three years ago I did a story about how the University of Minnesota had developed cold weather grapes. Back then the wines still tasted pretty sweet. Today they are much more sophisticated and easily rival anything you'd get from California. Minnesota wines are winning some of the most prestigious awards in the country.
So if it's been a while since you've sampled Minnesota wine, you should give it another taste. You can get a sampling out at the Minnesota State Fair in the horticultural building.
Be sure to tune in tonight at 10 to see what I mean about the beauty of these places.
