A Trip to Arkansas Wine Country

When you think of a vacation in wine country, chances are your mind calls up visions of warm California sun and gently rolling hills. You probably don't think of Arkansas, but with a history stretching back over 100 years, the vineyards of the Natural State are one of the hidden treasures of middle America.

Nestled in the valley between the Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas wine country is home to a wide variety of vineyards offering the wine lover a glimpse into the wine making process and the chance to sample award winning wines, including vintages made from strawberries, blueberries and muscadine.

Located in the small town of Altus, Chateau Aux Arc has a 40 acre vineyard, including ten acres featuring chardonnay grapes and 5 acres of Cynthiana grapes. The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm and Sunday's 12:00pm-5:00pm and not only features wine, but pieces from local artisans Kathy Henry and Al Treadway.

Post Familie Vineyard is the grand dame of Arkansas wineries. Founded in 1880, the Posts have cultivated their grapes for five generations. They feature a wide variety of wines from Merlot to Muscadine Blush in every price range. Retail hours are Monday through Saturday 9:30am-6:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. Tours are available by request 11:00am-3:00pm.

Also founded in 1880, Wiederkehr Winery's first wine cellar was carved into the mountainside and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The wine cellar now houses the Weinkeller Restaurant,featuring European cuisine and a selection of Wiederkehr Wines. The winery offers free tours daily from 9:00am to 4:30pm.