I love a good wine tasting. Not only is it fascinating to sample the seasonal vintages, but it’s a great way to try many different wines without breaking the bank. That’s definitely the case at Cedar Ridge Winery in the small town of Swisher – with a surprising bonus. Not only is this family-owned winery a great spot for tastings and events, but it’s also the best distillery in Iowa! In fact, corn whiskey is how this family farm got its start – it was actually the first licensed distillery in Iowa since the Great Depression! That means it’s a perfect spot for people to go whether they enjoy sampling delicate wines or have a taste for the harder stuff. It’s also a great lunch spot, with a full menu of pizzas and other favorites. Not to mention, this tiny town between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City makes an amazing backdrop for a summer day trip!

A sprawling complex with a nearly 15,000 square-foot winery, Cedar Ridge isn't just a winery - it's a destination.
Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery/Facebook
Over 10 acres of vines are used to produce some of Iowa's best wines every year.
Dylan Chisnell/Google Local
No matter what pairing you're looking for, the odds are you'll find something to love here. And you can try some of them on-site!
Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery/Facebook
Of course, wine isn't the only thing that's put Cedar Ridge on the map - it's a whiskey distillery, and Iowa's best in the field!
Darren Bob/Google Loca;

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There's only one place to head when you want to see what made this winery famous - the beautiful tasting room and restaurant.
Jason Grandt/Google Local
If you're going old-school, have your wine or whiskey with some light bread, cheese, and sliced meats.
Seth McCoy/Google Local
Or you can indulge in the full menu and dig into some of the best pizzas available in the Hawkeye State!
Xin Wang/Google Local
Of course, when the weather is as beautiful as it is in summer, the patio is open for diners to enjoy their wine and whiskey in the great outdoors.
Daniel Frommelt/Google Local

Have you visited Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery? Let us know what you sampled in the comments section! You can find out more about the menus and tasting options at the Cedar Ridge website and Cedar Ridge Facebook page. You’re close enough to the nearby cities that it would be a shame to not get some amazing old-school Czech pastries or book a stay at the historic Highlander Hotel.

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Cedar Ridge Distillery, 1441 Marak Rd NW, Swisher, IA 52338, USA