Arkansas claims some of the oldest and most interesting wineries in the country. You can wander through scenic vineyards, taste local wines, and get a feel for the state’s deep winemaking roots.
Major Wine Regions in Arkansas
The Arkansas River Valley is really the heart of wine country here. Most of the main growing areas pop up in Altus, the Ozark Mountain region, and the Arkansas Mountain appellations.
Altus stands out because it packs in a bunch of vineyards and some pretty historic wineries. Ozark Mountain stretches into nearby states and is all rolling hills and rich soil—honestly, it’s a great spot for anyone who loves wine, whether you’re new to it or already obsessed.
A single winery often falls into more than one appellation, which can get a little confusing but also kind of cool. When you visit, you’ll see more than grapevines—there are orchards and sweeping countryside views everywhere.
The landscape and old traditions really give Arkansas wine regions their charm. Learn more about Arkansas wine trails.
Popular Vineyards and Wineries
You’ll want to check out Post Winery, Wiederkehr, Chateau Aux Arc, and Sassafras Springs Vineyard. Post Winery and Wiederkehr both go way back to the 19th century and turn out a ton of wine every year.
Chateau Aux Arc has some unusual varietals and gorgeous tasting rooms that definitely stand out. Keels Creek Winery in Eureka Springs mixes wine with art, which is a nice touch.
Tontitown Winery blends Italian roots with Arkansas flair. Most wineries make it easy for visitors, offering food, tours, and a warm welcome.
You’ll find everything from old cellars to slick, modern spaces surrounded by vines. See a full list of Arkansas wineries.
Top Grape Varieties and Wines
Arkansas wineries grow a mix—native grapes, hybrids, and some classic varieties. Muscadine is a real local specialty; it’s bold, sweet, and not like anything you’ll find everywhere.
Cynthiana (or Norton, depending who you ask) is another favorite, usually made into rich, dry reds. There’s also Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Catawba, Edelweiss, Merlot, Niagara, Seyval Blanc, Verdelet, Vidal Blanc, and Vignoles.
You’ll see both dry and sweet wines, plus a bunch of fruit wines. Fruit wines—think blackberry, blueberry, and strawberry—are super popular and pretty easy to like, especially if you’re new to wine.
Wineries here also make classic picks like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Wine Tasting Experiences
Tasting wine in Arkansas feels pretty laid-back and friendly. Most wineries set up tasting rooms where you can sample wines either for free or for a small fee.
People who work there usually know their stuff and love to share stories about the wines. Wineries often offer flights, so you can try a few different wines at once.
You might get to taste something rare or nibble on local cheese and snacks while you sip. Some places give tours that let you see the winemaking process up close.
Extras like live music, special events, or picnic spots pop up at a lot of wineries. A few even rent out bikes so you can pedal around the vines—how fun is that?
You’ll probably feel like family by the end of your visit.
Planning Your Visit
It really pays to plan ahead before you hit the Arkansas wineries. Always check hours for each spot—some tasting rooms close on certain days or in the off-season.
If you want to visit more than one winery, mapping your route helps a lot. Some places ask for reservations for tastings or tours, especially when things get busy.
Dress for comfort, and don’t forget your ID—most places will check. For bigger groups, calling ahead is smart.
Bring your camera, since you’ll run into lots of scenic spots. Plenty of wineries host events like grape stomps, art shows, or live music.
For more info, check out Arkansas Wine Trail guides before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find almost 20 wineries scattered around scenic spots and small towns in Arkansas. Free tastings, handy maps, wine trails, and even overnight stays are all options you can explore.
What are the top wineries to visit in Arkansas?
Some of the best places to check out are Post Winery, Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, and BoBrook Farms. These have been around for years and each one gives you a different vibe.
You’ll run into friendly staff, lovely views, and a nice mix of wines at these spots.
Where can I find a map of local wineries in Arkansas?
Travel sites and local tourism boards usually have simple maps of area wineries. You can also use guides like the Arkansas Wineries & Wine Trails guide for detailed maps, directions, and lists.
Are there any wineries in Arkansas that offer overnight stays?
Most Arkansas wineries focus on tastings and day visits, but a handful offer cabins, cottages, or work with local bed and breakfasts. It’s worth calling ahead to ask about overnight options, since some places only offer them seasonally or as special packages.
Can you recommend a wine trail for touring Arkansas’s vineyards?
The Arkansas Wine Trail is a solid pick. You’ll pass through classic wine towns like Altus, Paris, and Wiederkehr Village, with several long-running wineries along some pretty back roads.
What’s the number of wineries you can visit in Arkansas?
There are nearly 20 wineries in Arkansas open to visitors. Hours can change, especially for holidays or events, so it’s smart to double-check before you go.
Which town is considered the wine capital in Arkansas?
People call Altus the wine capital of Arkansas. You’ll find this small Ozark town dotted with some of the state’s oldest and most popular wineries.
Looking for deep local history or just a wide choice of vineyards? Altus is honestly the best place to kick things off.