The Scenic Bluff Country Route That Leads To 7 Old-Fashioned Breweries and Wineries

On this scenic Minnesota road trip through the state's stunning Bluff Country, you'll share the roads with cyclists and Amish buggies, as you wind along the Root River and partake in the modern incarnations of the region's brewing and winemaking traditions.

Following the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, from Spring Valley to Hokah, you'll visit seven of the area's best breweries and wineries.

...All while enjoying the limestone cliffs and deep valleys of Minnesota's "driftless" Bluff Country.

The folks who live in the region have deep German, Scandinavian, and Amish roots, as well as a wine and beer-making heritage. Now, you can enjoy the - literal - fruits of these traditions as you drive the historic byway.

1. Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery, Spring Valley

Start in Spring Valley at Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery, which is also home to locally-popular Loon Juice hard cider.

Despite its Minnesota roots, Four Daughters' award-winning wines have gained a national reputation.

They've been featured at both the Sundance Film Festival and South By Southwest.

2. Hop and Barrel Brewing, Spring Valley

You won't have to travel far to get to the first brewery on your itinerary.

With a rotating selection of more than a dozen taps, Hop and Barrel is certain to have something to quench your thirst.

3. Sugar Creek Vineyard and Meadery, Fountain

Sugar Creek Vineyard and Meadery boasts a selection of more than a dozen wines and meads. You could spend a whole day there, but then you’d miss out on the rest of the road trip.

4. Karst Brewing, Fountain

We recommend a flight to sample as much of Karst Brewing’s impressive beer selection as possible.

5. Trout City Brewing, Preston

Of all the stops on the journey, Trout City Brewing is the one that feels most like a neighborhood bar. Make no mistake, though, Trout City makes its own beer, and it’s definitely worthy of your taste buds.

6. Sylvan Brewing, Lanesboro

With its many inns and bed-and-breakfasts, Lanesboro is a logical rest stop on the road trip.

End your day at Sylvan Brewing, or continue your journey there the next morning - or both.

7. Union Valley Vineyard and Winery, Hokah

End your journey sipping a glass of wine at Union Valley Vineyard and Winery, relaxing and enjoying all the beauty Minnesota’s Bluff Country has to offer.

Union Valley’s tasting room is open on a limited basis, so check its website and social media before you visit.

Have you visited any of these breweries or wineries - or driven the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway? What was your favorite stop along the way?

If you're interested in learning more about the area's Amish community on your trip through the region, you can find Amish businesses and tours in Lanesboro and a little farther south in the small town of Harmony.