For as long as people have lived along the Upper Mississippi River, grapes have been grown there. But it's really only in the past few years that the area has blossomed as a wine-growing region and vineyard destination.

Sure, the grape and vines have to be hardy enough to survive the cold winters, but with all the bluffs and hills, there's plenty of opportunity to get the vines maximum exposure to the sun. The soil of the clay and limestone bluffs lends unique flavor to the grapes, and vineyards just have to make small adaptations to protect their vines in the winter.

The Great River Road stretches along both sides of the Mississippi in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Over a stretch of just more than 200 miles there are 11 different vineyards making 100 different wines. Plan a day or a weekend or a full week out west along the Great River Road to take in all the great views and spectacular wines.

Every bit of information you could want about the Great River Road Wine Trail can be found on their website. Check out distances, suggested stops along the way and learn more about each vineyard.

Folks don't think of Wisconsin or the Mississippi River Valley when they think of wine, but once you've tasted all the delicious wines made there, you'll never make that mistake again!

The Wisconsin portion of the trail is just 68 miles and will take you to five different vineyards.

Starting at the North end, the first Wisconsin stop is Maiden Rock Winery and Cidery.

These folks might be more well-known for their cider than their wine, but both are made from local, Wisconsin fruit and are incredibly delicious. You won't find anything like this 80-acre farm anywhere else.

Located at W12266 King Lane, Stockholm, WI 54769.

Just nine miles away is Villa Belleza Winery.

They've built a charming complex reminiscent of Italy and you'll feel transported when you sit near their fountain and sip on their dozen different wines. They manage three vineyards in the area and combine that fruit to make an array of wine.

Located at 1420 3rd Street (Hwy 35), Pepin, WI 54759

Next head to Danzinger Vineyards on the bluff tops in Alma.

The 2013 Wisconsin Grape Growers Winery of the Year, this place is 18-acres of estate-made wine with more than 8,000 plants. Their wines have won Best in Show at the Minnesota Cold Climate Wine Competition and awards at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Located at S2015 Grapeview Lane

Alma, WI 54610.

A mile outside of Fountain City is Seven Hawks Vineyards.

This huge vineyard has a tasting room right in town in a renovated 1870s building. They are one of the biggest vineyards in the upper midwest, with more than 18,000 vines. They have lodging on site at their vineyard in cottages and suites.

Located at 17 North Street

Fountain City, WI 54629.

The last Wisconsin stop is Elmaro Vineyard, the 2017 Wisconsin Winery of the Year.

Members of this family homesteaded on this location in the 1850s and they've been here ever since. They offer all different kinds of tasting packages, so check them out to see what might work best for you.

Located at N14756 Delaney Rd., Trempealeau, WI 54661.

Looking for more Wisconsin wine? Check out 13 Picture Perfect Wisconsin Wineries You’ll Want To Visit.