This Little-Known Vineyard Proves Napa Has Nothing On Nebraska
By Delana Lefevers|Published June 01, 2019
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
You may think you know Nebraska wine, but this little gem tucked away in Scottsbluff probably isn’t even on your radar. The family-owned establishment been quietly producing award-winning wines since 2013, and you’re going to want to stop by for a visit.
Papa Moon Vineyard and Winery is located in a beautiful spot in Scottsbluff. The Massey family works together to bring up the grapes and produce the wines that have caused a real buzz in the world of Nebraska wines.
The whole thing began back in 2007 when the family planted a few grapevines, hoping to start a new hobby. That hobby eventually grew into a full-time pursuit, as it seems to do fairly often here in the heartland.
Even the business' name was inspired by family. The owner's grandson lovingly called his granddad "Papa Moon" when he was little, and when it came time to name the vineyard and winery, well, it just seemed to make sense.
You really couldn't ask for a more beautiful setting for this small-town operation. This is the kind of setting the grapes get to grow in - no wonder they grow up so happy and tasty!
The wine-making facilities at Papa Moon are rather small, but size doesn't matter when you're working with flavors like these. The grape varietals that thrive in Nebraska - and specifically in western Nebraska - produce wines that you'll never find anywhere else in the world.
Come on out to visit and you'll find not only delicious wines, but amazing scenery as well. Have a seat outdoors and enjoy a glass or two while you watch a legendary Nebraska sunset.
The property is also a popular place for gatherings and weddings. This "weddin' perch" may just be the most picturesque place we've ever seen for a wedding portrait.
Whether or not you're a drinker, you'll appreciate the grassroots, farm-to-table experience here. Friends and supporters are invited to come help with the annual harvest. It's a nod back to the way things were done in previous generations, and by all accounts it's a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
Come to taste some wine or hard cider, come to enjoy the scenery, or just come to be surrounded by some of Nebraska's hardworking and resourceful entrepreneurs. No matter what your reason for coming out, you'll want to keep coming back again and again.
Address: 230975 County Road J, Scottsbluff, NE 69361. The vineyard and winery is open only by appointment during the winter hours, but it keeps a regular schedule the rest of the year. Check out its Facebook page or website to learn more or to plan a visit.
We here in Nebraska wouldn’t especially think of Scottsbluff, where this winery is located, as a “small town,” but a magazine named it the sweetest small town in the state – and here’s why you should go.
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