Nebraska has really come into its own in the past couple of decades as a wine-producing state. We have a number of vineyards and wineries producing some of the finest wines you could hope to find in this part of the country. They are located nearly exclusively in southeastern Nebraska where the growing conditions are just right. If you want to make a day (or weekend) of wine-tasting and sightseeing, the Southeast Nebraska Winery Trail - a product of the Southeast Nebraska Winery Trail Association - is right up your alley.

At present, eight wineries participate in the Winery Trail.

This map is arranged in a way that looked appealing to us; there is no right or wrong way to travel the trail. You can visit one, visit them all, or just visit the few that look the most intriguing. If you do the entire trail seen here, the total driving time is four hours, not accounting for the time you spend at each stop. If you'd like to modify the route to change the order of your stops, click here for the customizable map.

1. Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery702 Main Street,Brownville, NE

Located in historic Brownville, this quaint winery operates out of a century-old barn and a turn-of-the-century underground cave. The wine is delicious and the setting couldn't be prettier.

2. SchillingBridge Winery & Microbrewery62193 710th Road, Pawnee City, NE

SchillingBridge's Pawnee City location has the distinction of being the nation's first farm winery/microbrewery combination. Enrich your visit by taking a stroll down to the beautiful limestone Rock Island Railroad bridge.

3. Glacial Till Vineyard & Winery344 South 2nd Road, Palmyra, NE

Located just southeast of Lincoln, Glacial Till is six acres of lush, beautiful vines. Despite being so close to the city, a trip to the family-owned winery feels like a little escape.

4. WunderRosa Winery2361 Wittstruck Road, Roca, NE

The WunderRosa is a beloved Lincoln-area winery that's been producing quality Nebraska-grown wines since 2009. If a day visit to their lovely grounds isn't enough for you (or if you indulge in a few too many tastings), the WunderRoost Bed and Breakfast is just around the corner and offers wonderful accommodations for a relaxing weekend away.

5. Windcrest Winery3110 West Branched Oak Road, Raymond, NE

The rolling green slope of this five-acre vineyard is a view to die for, and the wine you'll be sipping will make it even more memorable. Windcrest has been growing quality grapes since 1998 and producing their own wines - including cherry wine - since 2007.

6. James Arthur Vineyards2001 West Raymond Road, Raymond, NE

Tucked happily into 400 acres of surrounding hills and prairies, James Arthur Vineyards offers spectacular views. The tasting room features a big stone fireplace for warming up during the cooler months and a covered porch with a nearby waterfall for warmer nights.

7. Deer Springs Winery16255 Adams Street, Lincoln, NE

Believe it or not, this vineyard sits on the original homestead claimed by the owner's ancestors in 1874. The barn that serves as the tasting room was built in 1876 and has been restored to beautiful condition. With frequent live entertainment, Deer Springs is a fun and quick retreat from the busier Lincoln scene.

8. Soaring Wings Vineyard, 17111 South 138th Street, Springfield, NE

Just look at that building! It's no wonder that this is a very popular venue for weddings. Located just far enough away from the cities to feel like a remote getaway, Soaring Wings is also easily accessible. Every fall, you can look forward to the Harvest Festival - complete with grape stomping - and the Blues and Balloons Festival.

Nearly all of these vineyards offer live entertainment and/or food options of some kind, whether it's a full menu or a small appetizer tray. The Southeast Nebraska Winery Trail Association also sponsors fun events at member wineries throughout the year.

The eight wineries on the wine trail only represent a small portion of the great wine our amazing state has to offer. To see even more Nebraska vineyards and wineries, head on over here. For more information on the wine trail, visit the Southeast Nebraska Wine Trail site.