A french term, meaning, good journey, or have a good trip. My base from which all wine excursions flow is Dubuque, IA, which was founded by a Frenchman, Julian Dubuque. Therefore, Bon Voyage seemed an apt term for my inaugural Winery excursion into the Upper Mississippi Valley Wine Region. The research for my first trip was made extremely easy by accessing The Iowa Wine Trail. Living in Dubuque, I thought it would be fitting to begin my explorations in Iowa and to do so by visiting the wineries closest to home. The Wine Trail Map lays it all out, along with links to all the featured wineries and seasonal events. You can be sure I will be participating in the November Wine and Food Weekend too. Visiting all nine vineyards of The Iowa Wine Trail in one day-trip is probably too ambitious, so I will be breaking the trip in two. My first voyage will encompass The Park Farm Winery, Eagles Landing Winery, Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, and Engelbrecht Family Winery.
OK, I've always been known for stating the obvious and so why should I stop now? As I plan each junket into Mississippi wine country, I will also tie the review back to the original post title, for instance the review when posted will be titled Bon Voyage, The Review.
By the way, if you are reading this and you are interested in accompanying me on these jaunts, I am looking for a designated driver! Drop me a line or leave me a comment and maybe we can put it together.
As the Mississippi meanders through the upper states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, so too shall the Mississipper meander the local wineries of these fair states. This Missy Sipper promises to give you the best of our region's wine experts and vineyards. From reviews of their wine offerings to vivid descriptions of their tasting rooms, hospitality, food pairings, ambiance of place and more, we will uncover the best of the midwest Mississippi wine region. Sit back, sip some of your favorites and visit them all as soon as you can!