Cedar Ridge Winery: A Guide to Iowa's Award-Winning Wines

Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery is a family-owned business nestled in the beautiful Swisher countryside of Iowa. The winery and distillery are located on a family farm, where they produce award-winning wines and internationally recognized spirits. Cedar Ridge is the first licensed distillery in the state of Iowa, where they use only the best ingredients to create their products.

The winery offers a variety of wines, from dry to sweet, and everything in between. Cedar Ridge uses locally grown grapes to create their wines, ensuring that each bottle is of the highest quality. In addition to wine, Cedar Ridge also produces a variety of spirits, including whiskey, gin, and rum. The distillery offers tours, where visitors can see the process of how the spirits are made, and even sample some of the products.

Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery is not just a place to enjoy great wine and spirits, it is also an event space. The winery hosts a variety of events, including weddings, corporate events, and private parties. The beautiful countryside setting makes it the perfect place to celebrate any occasion. With its combination of great wine, spirits, and beautiful scenery, Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery is a must-visit destination in Iowa.

About Cedar Ridge

Cedar Ridge is a family-owned winery and distillery located in Swisher, Iowa. The distillery was founded by Jeff Quint in 2005, and it has since become a destination for wine and whiskey lovers alike.

History and Family Tradition

Cedar Ridge has a rich history and family tradition. The Quint family has been farming in Iowa for over 100 years, and the family's farming roots run deep. Jeff Quint grew up on the family farm and learned the art of distilling from his grandfather. After years of perfecting his craft, Jeff decided to start his own distillery, and Cedar Ridge was born.

The distillery is located on 5 acres of land, and it includes a winery, a tasting room, and a gift shop. Cedar Ridge is known for its award-winning whiskeys and wines, which are made using the finest ingredients and traditional distilling techniques.

Awards and Recognition

Cedar Ridge has won numerous awards and recognition for its wines and whiskeys. In 2017, Cedar Ridge was named the "Distillery of the Year" by the American Distilling Institute. The distillery has also won several awards for its whiskeys, including the "Best American Craft Whiskey" award at the 2016 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition.

Cedar Ridge is proud to be an award-winning distillery, but the Quint family is even more proud of the tradition and history that they bring to each bottle of whiskey and wine. The family's commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every sip, and visitors to Cedar Ridge are sure to appreciate the attention to detail and care that goes into each bottle.

Wines and Spirits Offerings

Wine Selection

Cedar Ridge Winery offers a diverse selection of wines that are crafted from locally grown grapes. The winery is committed to producing high-quality wines that are authentic by nature. Their wine selection includes both red and white wines, and they also offer a rosé. Cedar Ridge Winery's wines are known for their rich flavor and aroma, and they are perfect for a variety of occasions.

Cedar Ridge Winery's wine selection includes the following:

• Red Wines: Cedar Ridge Winery's red wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. These wines are full-bodied and rich in flavor, and they pair well with a variety of foods.
• White Wines: Cedar Ridge Winery's white wines include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling. These wines are light and refreshing, and they are perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
• Rosé: Cedar Ridge Winery's rosé is a blend of red and white wines, and it is light and refreshing. It is perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon.

Whiskey and Spirits

Cedar Ridge Winery is also known for its award-winning whiskey and spirits. Their whiskey is crafted from locally grown grains and is aged in oak barrels. Cedar Ridge Winery's whiskey is known for its smooth flavor and rich aroma.

In addition to whiskey, Cedar Ridge Winery also offers a variety of other spirits, including gin, rum, and vodka. These spirits are crafted using the same grain-to-glass approach as their whiskey, and they are perfect for mixing into your favorite cocktail.

Craft and Production

Cedar Ridge Winery is committed to producing high-quality wines and spirits that are authentic by nature. They use a grain-to-glass approach, which means that they control every step of the production process, from growing the grains to bottling the finished product.

Their commitment to craft and production is evident in the quality of their products. Cedar Ridge Winery's wines and spirits are known for their rich flavor and aroma, and they are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you are looking for a bottle of wine to pair with dinner or a bottle of whiskey to sip on a cold winter night, Cedar Ridge Winery has something for you.

Tasting Experiences

Cedar Ridge Winery offers a variety of tasting experiences to suit every palate. From the cozy tasting room to the guided tastings, visitors can indulge in a range of flavors and aromas.

Tasting Room Ambiance

The Tasting Room at Cedar Ridge Winery is a cozy and inviting space, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. With beautiful views overlooking the vineyards and a 25-foot bar, this room can accommodate up to 60 guests. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a fireplace to keep guests cozy during the colder months. The room is decorated with a rustic charm, featuring wooden floors and exposed brick walls, which adds to the cozy atmosphere.

Guided Tastings

Cedar Ridge Winery offers guided tastings to help visitors discover the unique flavors of their wines and spirits. The knowledgeable staff members are passionate about their products and are happy to share their expertise with visitors. During the guided tastings, visitors can learn about the different grape varieties and distilling techniques used to create the wines and spirits. The tastings are educational and fun, making them perfect for wine lovers of all levels.

Food Pairings

Cedar Ridge Winery offers a menu of food pairings to complement their wines and spirits. The menu includes a variety of snacks and small plates that are perfect for sharing. Visitors can enjoy items such as cheese plates, charcuterie boards, and chocolate truffles. The food pairings are carefully selected to enhance the flavors of the wines and spirits, creating a truly unique tasting experience.

Overall, Cedar Ridge Winery offers a range of tasting experiences that are sure to delight visitors. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Distillery and Winery Tours

Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery offers visitors a chance to experience the entire process of crafting their award-winning wines and internationally recognized spirits. The tour guides take visitors through the entire process, from grain to glass, where nature is the ultimate guide.

Tour Options

Cedar Ridge offers a variety of tour options to suit different preferences and budgets. The standard tour includes a guided tour of the distillery and winery, a tasting of six of their wines and spirits, and a souvenir glass. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

For those who want a more in-depth experience, Cedar Ridge offers a VIP tour. This tour includes a guided tour of the distillery and winery, a tasting of six of their wines and spirits, a souvenir glass, and a cheese and charcuterie board. The VIP tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Educational Aspect

The tours at Cedar Ridge are not just a chance to taste their products, but also an opportunity to learn about the process of crafting wine and spirits. Visitors will learn about the history of the winery and distillery, the process of fermentation, and the aging process. They will also learn about the importance of using local ingredients and the role of oak barrels in the aging process.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, and are happy to answer any questions visitors may have. They are also happy to share recipes and cocktail ideas for visitors to try at home.

Overall, the tours at Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery are a great way to learn about the process of crafting wine and spirits, taste some of their award-winning products, and enjoy the beautiful Iowa countryside.

Events and Activities

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is not just a place to enjoy award-winning wines and spirits, but it also offers a range of events and activities for visitors. From live music to private events, there is always something happening at Cedar Ridge.

Live Music and Entertainment

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers live music and entertainment every weekend. Visitors can enjoy live music from local artists while sipping on their favorite drinks. The winery has a spacious event space that can accommodate up to 200 guests, making it an ideal venue for concerts and other events.

Private Events and Rentals

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is the perfect venue for private events. The winery offers a beautiful event space that can be rented for weddings, corporate events, and other private parties. The event center can comfortably seat up to 200 guests and can be opened up to the outdoor terraces on a beautiful day. The winery also offers catering services for private events.

Recurring Events Schedule

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery has a recurring events schedule that visitors can check out on their website. Every Saturday, visitors can enjoy live music from local artists, while Sundays are reserved for yoga and other wellness activities. The winery also hosts a range of other events throughout the year, including wine and food pairings, holiday celebrations, and more.

Overall, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers a range of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking for live music, private event space, or recurring events, Cedar Ridge has something for everyone.

Amenities and Services

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers a variety of amenities and services to enhance visitors' experiences. Here are some of the amenities and services that visitors can expect:

Dining and Cuisine

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery has a restaurant that serves wood-fired pizzas and a variety of cheeses. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the scenic views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and spirits that pair well with the food.

Shopping and Merchandise

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, wines, and spirits. The gift shop offers a variety of merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and glasses. Visitors can also purchase Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery's wines and spirits online and have them shipped directly to their homes.

Customer Service

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery's staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Visitors can expect to receive excellent customer service when they visit the winery and distillery. The staff is available to answer any questions visitors may have about the wines and spirits, the vineyards, and the history of the winery and distillery.

Overall, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers a variety of amenities and services that make it a great destination for wine and spirits enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, cheeses, and a selection of wines and spirits at the winery's restaurant. They can also purchase souvenirs, wines, and spirits at the gift shop or online. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, providing excellent customer service to visitors.

Visiting Cedar Ridge

If you're planning a visit to Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery, here's what you need to know.

Location and Accessibility

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is located in Swisher, Iowa, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Cedar Rapids. The address is 1441 Marak Rd NW, Swisher, IA 52338. The winery is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available on-site.

Hours of Operation

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is open seven days a week. The tasting room and restaurant are open from 11am to 8pm Monday through Thursday, 11am to 9pm on Friday and Saturday, and 11am to 6pm on Sunday. The distillery tours are available daily at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation, you can contact Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery by phone at (319) 857-4300 or by email at info@cedarridgewinery.com. You can also visit their website at cedarridgewinery.com for more information.

During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to taste Cedar Ridge's award-winning wines and spirits, enjoy a meal at the restaurant, and take a tour of the distillery. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the winemaking and distilling process.

Overall, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wine and spirits. With its beautiful location, delicious food and drink, and welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends.

Community and Environment

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is committed to supporting local partnerships and promoting sustainability efforts in the Midwest community.

Local Partnerships

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery values the importance of supporting local businesses and farmers. They have partnered with several local businesses to source ingredients for their products. For example, they source their corn from a local farm in Iowa. This not only helps to support the local economy but also ensures the freshest and highest quality ingredients are used in their products.

In addition to sourcing ingredients locally, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery also partners with local organizations to give back to the community. They have donated to various local charities and organizations, including the Iowa City Hospice and the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors.

Sustainability Efforts

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is dedicated to promoting sustainability efforts in the Midwest community. They have implemented several initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. For example, they use geothermal heating and cooling to reduce their energy consumption. They also recycle and reuse materials whenever possible.

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is also committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Midwest. They have planted thousands of trees on their property to help prevent erosion and promote biodiversity. They also use sustainable farming practices to ensure the land is preserved for future generations.

Overall, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery's commitment to supporting local partnerships and promoting sustainability efforts demonstrates their dedication to the community and the environment.