Sip your way through the best wineries near Madison with my guide!
For as long as I can remember, wine has been one of my favorite reasons to travel Wisconsin.
So, whenever I visit cities in the state that have wineries, like Madison surroundings, I always allocate days or even weeks to check out each vineyard one by one!
I will be honest: not every winery in and near the city met my expectations.
But there were undoubtedly wineries with the best wines, charming taste rooms, and exceptional customer service!
Hence, I’ve shortlisted the best wineries near Madison so you only get the best winery experience possible.
You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Wisconsin posts? Have a look at my other posts:
Overview: Best Wineries near Madison
- Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
- Drumlin Ridge Winery
- Cambridge Winery
1. Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
Location: Prairie du Sac, WI
Just half an hour’s drive away from Madison sits the iconic and scenic Wollersheim Winery & Distillery.
This winery’s roots stretch back 150 years ago. So, as you’d expect, it delivers nothing but quality.
Since we booked a walking tour (which I highly recommend), our visit was very organized.
We tried three wines as we walked through the entire winery, including the iconic wine cave (where the winery started), the vineyard, the wine cellars, and the behind-the-scenes facilities.
After the tour, we also visited the distillery portion, which is a feat in itself!
But I’m not going to lie; their wines keep me coming back, as I’ve never tried a single wine variety that didn’t suit my taste!
Wollersheim Winery & Distillery will always be one of the best wineries near Madison for me. I can’t wait to visit again when I’m in the area.
2. Botham Vineyards & Winery
Location: Barneveld, WI
Botham Vineyards & Winery is another established name in the state’s wine scene.
This family-owned business has produced some of the best Wisconsin wine since 1989, taking pride in its grape-to-glass philosophy.
Truthfully, there’s nothing too special about the outdoor view of Botham, but I totally loved the atmosphere in its yellow-painted tasting room.
The staff was very informative and fun to talk to, and they were very kind to share tips on which types of wines pair with which food!
It was probably my homiest wine tasting in Madison WI.
Not to mention, everything was reasonably priced!
We were able to taste 8 wines for only $10. Ended up bringing home two bottles each.
I heard you can also bring your snacks and hold a picnic in this winery, but there’s no need to it also offers delicious snacks that pair well with wine.
3. Drumlin Ridge Winery
Location: Waunakee, WI
We found Drumlin Ridge Winery purely by accident.
While looking for things to do in Madison, we went on a road trip, saw the winery’s sign, and decided to enter the establishment because why not?
My friend was so disappointed ‘cause she couldn’t join the wine-tasting fun (she was the designated driver).
But I, on the other hand, got to experience all the Drumlin Ridge wine craze firsthand!
My first impression was that the winery looked very neat and well-maintained.
Its neutral-colored building reminded me of a modern coffee shop, and the interior also felt very modern and chic!
I also took several pictures posing in front of the outdoor fireplace before we entered the winery.
Sitting on the couches inside the building, we tried 6 wines for $10.
I wasn’t a huge fan of every wine I tried (many were on the drier side and had a subtle, bitter aftertaste).
But I brought a bottle of the mango habanero wine home because of its uniqueness.
It may not be a 10/10, but it’s still one of the best wineries near Madison Wisconsin.
4. Cambridge Winery
Location: Madison, WI
Locally owned but nationally recognized – let me introduce the Cambridge winery.
This winery has two locations: Madison (The Tasting Room) and Cambridge (the Event Center).
We visited the branch in Madison. Apart from the wine selection, which included dozens of rosés, whites, and reds combined, we were very impressed by all the food options they offered.
I recommend trying their assorted cheese or meat board, house-made pizza, and burgers.
Honestly, there wasn’t anything too unique about Cambridge Winery’s building itself. It just looks like a standard modern tasting room.
But the atmosphere felt very relaxing, especially since the winery had vast, clear windows.
After this, you can try other activities in Madison like an E-Bike Guided Tour.
5. Lewis Station Winery & Distillery
Location: Lake Mills, WI
Operating from a repurposed vintage gas station, Lewis Station Winery & Distillery is one of the most unique urban wineries near Madison.
Aesthetics-wise, it comes second to none on this list.
Its exterior still hints at its history as a gas station, with large stacked barrels enhancing the rustic vibe.
Once you step inside, you’ll find wine-filled shelves surrounding the seating areas where you can relish the carefully curated flights.
How’s the wine quality? Top-notch.
This winery is proud to produce craft artisan wine with minimal additives.
Its reds, which made the bold, dark-fruit flavors shine, exceeded my expectations.
If you’re not a big fan of these full-bodied options, there are also sweeter wines available.
Live music sessions are held every Saturday, so schedule your visit accordingly if you enjoy a lively atmosphere!
Wisconsin Classic SweatshirtWanderust Box SignWisconsin HoodieBest Loop Hikes Wisconsin GuideUnder Armour BackpackWisconsin Haunted Travel Guide
6. Rock N Wool Winery
Location: Poynette, WI
After visiting a gas station-turned-winery, why not also check out a barn-turned-winery?
I visited Rock N Wool Winery because of its iconic name (it gave me a good laugh), and the vibe of this winery is just as quirky as its name.
When we arrived, the staff offered us a free wagon ride (I heard they offer free rides every Saturday).
But apart from the fun countryside atmosphere, their wine also stood out!
Rock N Wool exclusively uses Wisconsin grapes.
So, yes– it’s one of the best places to taste authentic Wisconsin wines.
Their fruit varieties were undoubtedly some of the best I’ve tried—especially the pineapple and blueberry bottles.
Unfortunately, there aren’t many dry wine options (only about a handful or less).
If you’re looking for cool weekend trips in Wisconsin, make sure to give the Rock N Wool winery a try!
7. Timber Hill Winery
Location: Milton, WI
A family-owned winery that primarily uses locally sourced grapes, that’s Timber Hill Winery for you.
This winery might not be the biggest or most popular on this list, but it 100% deserves its spot as one of the best wineries near Madison WI—the hidden gem of the batch.
It used to have a small location, but it recently relocated to a much bigger venue.
We visited their new spot during winter in Madison, and surprise, surprise, it had cozy outdoor igloos that served as seating areas.
Since we were freezing, however, we opted for indoor seating (on the loft specifically).
And I must say, though we already expected to see an amazing wine selection, we didn’t expect this under-the-radar winery also to have such good food!
We got to know the couple sitting right next to our table. Apparently, they always celebrate their month series in this winery, and the staff is always so accommodating.
8. Hawk’s Mill Winery
Location: Browntown, WI
Looking back at all the wineries I’ve visited, Hawk’s Mill Winery still stands as the most serene wine location I’ve tried.
Since it’s located on the city’s outskirts, on top of a hill, all you’ll see outside this winery’s building is 600+ acres of nature serving as a backdrop.
But besides the breathtaking view outside, the tasting room was also very inviting.
Most of the furniture was wooden, giving that rustic atmosphere that highlights how nature-oriented this winery is.
We tried over a dozen samples of the vast wine selection (half dry and half sweet), and surprisingly, they had excellent options in both categories!
If you love quiet atmospheres and want to avoid crowded places, this winery is perfect!
9. Bailey’s Run Vineyard
Location: New Glarus, WI
Though I’ve only been to Bailey’s Run Vineyard once, my experience there was nothing short of unforgettable!
First off, I was impressed by the small community that gathered in this winery when we visited.
Local performers sang while the audience enjoyed their glasses of wine, singing along from time to time!
I wanted to sit on the terrace and enjoy the local performances.
But since it was packed, we had to get a table indoors instead.
I was still very pleased, though, as I got to have some photo ops with the tables made from repurposed barrels and ended up being my profile picture for a while.
Regarding the drinks, the wine slushy I ordered was good.
But I have to say the brick-oven pizza really struck me, so you must get at least one for the table.
Bailey’s Run Vineyard is key when you’re looking for Southern Wisconsin wineries with good food, wine, music, and people.
10. Sugar Creek Winery of Wisconsin
Location: Belleville, WI
While on a road trip along the Wisconsin River from Madison, we eventually ended up in Belleville, where we found the Sugar River Winery.
Heads up: this winery is not your typical winery.
There are no fancy tables, mesmerizing views, or local events all year round.
When we drove to the place, it felt so sketchy that we almost turned around before trying it.
But, you know what they say: never judge a book by its cover.
Though its facilities were lacking, this winery’s quality of customer service made up for everything.
Because guess what—the winery’s vintner/owner himself, Paul, will help you choose the best wines for your palate!
The wine-tasting process is free, and we got lots of free information about wine from Paul.
All the wines are fruit blends, which I know won’t appeal to everyone’s taste.
But the experience was so amazing that even my friend, who prefers reds, ended up taking home about 5 bottles.
Wisconsin Classic SweatshirtWanderust Box SignWisconsin HoodieBest Loop Hikes Wisconsin GuideUnder Armour BackpackWisconsin Haunted Travel Guide
Tips for Visiting Wineries Near Madison
Are you planning on checking out wineries near Madison? Keep these tips in mind.
Tip 1: Research the types of wines served in advance
Not all wineries serve a wide range of wines. Some are heavy on reds, while others only offer fruit wines.
To ensure you can order a drink that suits your taste, review the winery’s menu before visiting or reading other people’s reviews.
Tip 2: Know your crowd tolerance
If you prefer less crowded areas, visit during weekdays, in the morning or early afternoon, to avoid the late-afternoon rush common in wineries and distilleries.
Tip 3: Don’t be shy about asking questions
Wineries’ staff are trained to give wine tips or answer wine-related questions customers may have. Not everyone can be a wine expert immediately, so if you’re unsure about anything, just ask!
I always ask for wine recommendations whenever I visit wineries. More often than not, I order flights of the wines that are suggested to me.
You can also check out other Madison tours here.
My thoughts on wineries near Madison
Madison, one of the best places to vacation in Wisconsin, might have a few wineries in its vicinity.
But minutes away from its borders lie some of the state’s most renowned wineries and vineyards!
Wisconsin’s wine is famous for its unique fruit blends and diverse flavors.
So, if you still have spots to fill in your Madison itinerary, I highly recommend you insert one of the wineries I’ve mentioned into your travel schedule.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
Discussion about this post