Nestled in a lush valley in Wisconsin, only about an hour’s drive from the Twin Cities (and well worth the drive) is a unique winery/restaurant open during the season on Thursdays through Sundays, offering not only unique Italian food and drink, but a sumptuous Sunday brunch. The ambiance alone is worth the experience.
Not only does Vino in the Valley offer their own wines — you can walk between the vines as you walk the gorgeous grounds — but they serve several other varietals of other vintners. Plan for a long wait because the location is no longer a secret, but while you wait you can be entertained at outdoor umbrellaed tables, get a drink at the bar, play various games, or meander down to the Rush River which traverses the boundary of the grounds. Live music by talented local musicians is provided, and a fully stocked gift house is ready to serve you or sell you some of your favorite wines.
The restaurant sits under a large (and I mean large) outdoor pavilion, and it reminded me of an Italian village festival where the entire community gathers, dressed informally, for a festive afternoon of food, song and merriment. The service is quick and responsive, the food is wholesome and well prepared. You sit there, surrounded by green hills and trees, with the river gurgling nearby, near the vineyard and a huge garden/farm where many of the vegetables are apparently grown, and soak it all up as you escape into a European-type experience..
Vino in the Valley caters parties and special occasions, has an OctoberFest, bonfires, hayrides, features local artisans, has sleigh rides over the holidays, and is the perfect atmosphere for an experience as they describe, “Bella Sera,” a beautiful evening (or afternoon). We enjoyed a captivating experience, and thought it was worth passing along. www.vinointhevalley.com Maiden Rock, WI. Manga and enjoy!
