Rustic Roots Winery: A Guide to the Best Wines and Tastings

Rustic Roots Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard located in Scandia, MN, that offers a comfortable and scenic setting for wine tasting. The winery is known for its approachable, quality wines made with local and out-of-state grapes. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, Rustic Roots Winery has something to offer for everyone.

Located in the St. Croix Valley, Rustic Roots Winery is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The winery offers a variety of red, white, and rose wines, as well as hard cider, local beer, and non-alcoholic options. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the St. Croix River and the estate-style vineyard while sipping on their favorite drink. The winery also offers a restaurant that serves delicious house-made hummus, flatbreads, and other small plates.

Rustic Roots Winery prides itself on its approachable wines that are made with quality ingredients. The winery's staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to help visitors choose the perfect wine for their taste. Whether you're looking for a happy hour glass, a patio day, a family outing, or a special event, you'll find something to suit your mood and occasion at Rustic Roots Winery.

History and Philosophy

Founding of Rustic Roots Winery

Rustic Roots Winery was founded in 2019 by Andrea and Greg Sandager, along with their son Howie. The winery is located on an 80-acre estate-style vineyard in Scandia, Minnesota. The Sandagers purchased the property in 2019 and began renovating it to create a working vineyard with a tasting room. The property was previously a family home built around 1990 on the site of the original farmhouse.

Estate-Style Vineyard Development

The Sandagers have taken great care to develop their vineyard in a way that reflects the history and roots of the area. They have created an estate-style vineyard that is lined with panoramic views of the St. Croix River Valley. The vineyard is a reflection of the Sandagers' heritage and their deep connection to the community. They have taken immense pride in their area and have created a place where anyone would feel comfortable.

Spirit of the Valley

Rustic Roots Winery stands for a reflection on - and a reflection of - the spirit of the valley. The Sandagers' philosophy is to offer approachable, flavor-forward wines with a local touch, served in a cozy, down-home environment that encourages visitors to gather together and get comfortable. They want visitors to slow down, relax, enjoy quality, local wine, and embrace the spirit of the valley. The winery's top-selling wine is Roots Red, which is produced from Minnesota-grown Frontenac grapes. It is full-bodied, semi-sweet, and offers flavors of plum and cherry with finishing notes of sweet milk chocolate.

The Sandagers encourage visitors to try something new and sample grenache from their red wine list. Rustic Roots Winery is a place where visitors can experience the history and roots of the area while enjoying quality, local wine.

Wine Tasting Experience

Rustic Roots Winery offers an approachable and relaxed wine tasting experience in a downhome setting. The tasting room's warm and cozy ambience is perfect for sipping quality, local wine and embracing the spirit of the St. Croix Valley.

Tasting Room Ambience

The tasting room at Rustic Roots Winery is designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. With rustic decor, cozy seating, and a fireplace, the tasting room is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine. The friendly staff is knowledgeable and approachable, making guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Wine Flight Offerings

Rustic Roots Winery offers a variety of wine flights, allowing guests to sample a selection of wines. The wine flights include four different wines, each carefully selected to showcase the winery's unique flavors and characteristics. The flights are reasonably priced, making it easy for guests to try multiple wines without breaking the bank.

Reservation Information

To ensure the best possible experience, Rustic Roots Winery recommends making a reservation for wine tastings. Reservations can be made online or by phone, and walk-ins are welcome if space is available. The tasting fee is reasonable and includes a tasting of four wines and a souvenir wine glass. The winery also offers private tastings and events for groups of 10 or more.

Overall, Rustic Roots Winery offers a welcoming and enjoyable wine tasting experience for all guests. With a cozy tasting room, approachable staff, and a variety of wine flights, it's the perfect place to relax and savor the flavors of the St. Croix Valley.

Winery Offerings

Rustic Roots Winery offers an extensive selection of wines, local beers, and ciders, along with an array of food pairing options. The winery's goal is to provide guests with a unique tasting experience that highlights the flavors and aromas of the St. Croix Valley.

Varieties of Wines

Rustic Roots Winery produces several flavor-forward wines that are perfect for pairing with small plates or flatbreads. Guests can choose from a variety of red, white, and rosé wines, all of which are available by the glass or bottle. Wine flights are also available for those who want to sample multiple varieties.

Local Beers and Ciders

In addition to wine, Rustic Roots Winery offers a selection of local beers and ciders. Guests can choose from a rotating selection of craft beers and ciders from breweries and cideries in the St. Croix Valley.

Food Pairing Options

To complement the wine, Rustic Roots Winery offers a variety of food pairing options. Guests can choose from a selection of small plates, including cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as flatbreads. The winery also offers a selection of desserts that pair perfectly with the wine.

Overall, Rustic Roots Winery offers a unique tasting experience that showcases the flavors and aromas of the St. Croix Valley. Whether guests are looking for a glass of wine, a local beer, or a bite to eat, Rustic Roots Winery has something to offer.

Events and Activities

Rustic Roots Winery offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. From live music to bingo, there is always something going on at Rustic Roots Winery.

Annual Chili Cook-Off

One of the most highly anticipated events at Rustic Roots Winery is the Annual Chili Cook-Off. This event brings together teams from all over the region to compete for the title of best chili. Participants are judged on taste, texture, and presentation, and winners receive prizes such as gift cards and wine. This event is a great opportunity for chili enthusiasts to show off their skills and enjoy a day of fun and competition.

Tuesday Trivia and Bingo

Every Tuesday night, Rustic Roots Winery hosts Trivia and Bingo events. Trivia night is a great opportunity for people to show off their knowledge and compete against other teams. Winners receive prizes such as gift cards and wine. Bingo night is another popular event, with participants playing for the chance to win prizes such as free wine tastings and bottles of wine. These events are a great way to meet new people and have fun with friends.

Live Music and Food Trucks

Rustic Roots Winery also hosts live music and food truck events throughout the year. These events are a great opportunity for people to enjoy good food and great music while sipping on delicious wine. The winery invites local musicians to perform, and guests can enjoy a variety of genres such as folk, rock, and blues. Food trucks offer a variety of tasty options, from barbecue to tacos. These events are perfect for a fun night out with friends or a romantic date.

Private Events

In addition to the events listed above, Rustic Roots Winery also offers private event space for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. The winery provides a beautiful setting with stunning views of the St. Croix Valley. Guests can enjoy delicious wine and catering services, making for a memorable event. Rustic Roots Winery is a great choice for those looking for a unique and beautiful venue for their special event.

Visiting the Winery

Rustic Roots Winery is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine in a serene and charming atmosphere. The winery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, as well as private event bookings.

Patio and Landscaping

The outdoor patio at Rustic Roots Winery is a beautiful and relaxing space to enjoy a glass of wine. The patio is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscaping, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the beautiful Minnesota weather while sipping on a glass of wine and taking in the stunning surroundings.

Indoor and Screen Porch Seating

For those who prefer to be indoors, Rustic Roots Winery offers a cozy indoor seating area as well as a screened-in porch. The indoor seating area is warm and inviting, with comfortable seating and rustic decor. The screened-in porch offers a unique experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while still being protected from the elements.

Private Event Bookings

Rustic Roots Winery is the perfect venue for private events such as weddings, corporate events, and private parties. The winery offers a beautiful and unique setting for any occasion, with indoor and outdoor seating options and stunning landscaping. The winery also has a private event space that can accommodate up to 150 guests.

To make a reservation or book a private event at Rustic Roots Winery, guests can visit their website or call the winery directly. Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon with friends or a stunning venue for your next event, Rustic Roots Winery has something for everyone.

Community Engagement

Rustic Roots Winery is more than just a place to enjoy great wine. It is a hub for community engagement, offering a variety of events and activities that cater to all ages. Here are some ways Rustic Roots Winery engages with the community.

Educational Presentations

One of the ways Rustic Roots Winery engages with the community is by offering educational presentations. They host events where visitors can learn about the wine-making process, the history of the vineyard, and the different types of grapes used to make their wine. These educational presentations are a great way to learn about the wine industry and the history of the local area.

Local Community Contributions

Rustic Roots Winery is committed to giving back to the local community. They frequently participate in local events and donate a portion of their proceeds to local charities. They also work with local farmers to source their grapes and other ingredients, which helps to support the local economy. By contributing to the local community, Rustic Roots Winery is able to help promote economic growth and sustainability.

Family-Friendly Environment

Rustic Roots Winery is a family-friendly environment that caters to all ages. They offer a variety of activities for children, including lawn games and a play area. They also have a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for those who do not drink wine. This family-friendly environment makes Rustic Roots Winery a great place to visit for people of all ages.

In conclusion, Rustic Roots Winery is more than just a winery. It is a community hub that offers a variety of events and activities for people of all ages. From educational presentations to family-friendly environments, Rustic Roots Winery is committed to engaging with the local community and promoting economic growth and sustainability.

Additional Amenities

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Rustic Roots Winery offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages for those who prefer not to drink alcohol. They have a selection of soda, juice, and water available for purchase. Additionally, they offer a variety of non-alcoholic cocktails that are made with fresh fruit and herbs. These drinks are perfect for those who want to enjoy the ambiance of the winery without consuming alcohol.

Comfortable Accommodations

For those who want to stay overnight at Rustic Roots Winery, the winery offers a cozy cabin that can accommodate up to four people. The cabin is equipped with a full kitchen, a bathroom, and a living room with a fireplace. The cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway or a weekend with friends.

Accessibility for All Skill Levels

Rustic Roots Winery is a family-friendly winery that welcomes visitors of all ages. They offer a variety of activities that are suitable for children, such as grape stomping and hayrides. The winery also offers wine tasting classes for those who want to learn more about wine. These classes are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Overall, Rustic Roots Winery is a great destination for those who want to enjoy the ambiance of a winery without consuming alcohol. They offer a cozy cabin for those who want to stay overnight, and they welcome visitors of all ages and skill levels.

Customer Experience

Reviews and Testimonials

Customers have given Rustic Roots Winery high praise for their exceptional wines and friendly staff. On Yelp, Rustic Roots Winery has an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5, with customers praising the "wonderful atmosphere," "great wine selection," and "knowledgeable and friendly staff." Many customers also mention the beautiful vineyard and outdoor seating areas that offer fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Service Quality

Rustic Roots Winery is known for its excellent service. The staff is knowledgeable about the wines and is always willing to help customers choose the perfect wine for their taste. They are also friendly and welcoming, making customers feel right at home. The winery offers a variety of experiences, including tastings, tours, and private events, and the staff is always happy to accommodate special requests.

Making Reservations

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, Rustic Roots Winery recommends making reservations in advance. Customers can easily make a reservation through the winery's website or by calling the tasting room directly. The winery also offers private event spaces for larger groups, such as weddings or corporate events. Customers can contact the winery's events team to learn more about hosting a private event at Rustic Roots Winery.

Overall, Rustic Roots Winery provides an exceptional customer experience with its friendly staff, beautiful vineyard, and excellent wines. Customers can expect top-notch service and a warm welcome when visiting the winery.

Location and Scenery

Scandia, MN Vineyard

Located in Scandia, Minnesota, Rustic Roots Winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. The vineyard is situated just north of Stillwater, in the heart of the St. Croix Valley, and features a charming tasting room with an inviting atmosphere. The winery is easily accessible from the Twin Cities area, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Views of the River Valley

The vineyard is nestled on a hill overlooking the St. Croix River Valley, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramic views. The rustic scenery creates a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for wine tasting. The vineyard's 80-acre property is lined with beautiful views that will transport you to another place. Rustic Roots Winery stands for a reflection on—and a reflection of—our heritage.

Approachability and Flavors

Rustic Roots Winery offers a variety of approachable and flavor-forward wines that are sure to please any palate. The winery's focus on quality and attention to detail is evident in every bottle. Visitors can choose from a variety of red, white, and rosé wines, as well as hard ciders. The winery also offers a food menu that pairs perfectly with their wines, featuring charcuterie boards and other small plates.

In summary, Rustic Roots Winery in Scandia, MN is a picturesque vineyard that offers visitors stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley. The winery's approachable and flavor-forward wines, combined with its charming tasting room and relaxed atmosphere, make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Minnesota's wine country.