Potosi Hides a Stunning Wine Destination at Whispering Bluffs

Most people in the Tri-States know Potosi, Wisconsin for the National Brewery Museum and the great selection of Potosi beers. My latest trip to hike through the local areas, Nelson Dewey State Park, left me enjoying the fruits of the vine in a beautiful, quaint location, right across the street from the breweries tap room, at Whispering Bluff Winery. I'll be honest, I didn't realize such good wine, was "hidden" this close to me in a small town of just over 600 people.

Get our free mobile app

Founded in 2012 by Wes and Janet Helmick, Whispering Bluffs Winery has quickly become a local gem. The winery sits along the Mississippi River in southwest Wisconsin, just a short drive from Dubuque. Its location on the bluffs, part of the unique Driftless Region, provides ideal conditions for growing cold-hardy grapes, many of which come from the Whispering Bluffs Vineyard in nearby Cassville (where we were hiking on the day). Since the vineyard is planted on soil untouched by the glaciers, it produces a distinct terroir that gives the wines their unique flavors.

Well, after dropping 4-miles on the trails, as I am seemingly part "billy-goat," the relaxing and inviting nature of the pristine establishment was a much-needed rest. Our server was amazing. Big Shout out to Denise (pictured below) for providing us all the details on the winery, and pouring the $8 wine flights my wife and I enjoyed. 5 samples for $8 bucks is great; especially when the wine is as good as it is there.

The wines all crafted from local varieties, with my favorites coming in the form of their decadent Marechal Foch. The bottle displays the same painted eagle which is featured on their signs. By the way, the many pictures you'll see painted in the winery, were created by the owner. Each painting of his has become the label standard for the wines they serve, including that iconic bald eagle.

Wine's not all they a have there either. Chocolates and cheese are available on site to pair with your wines. Right next door, an ice cream shop is a welcome neighbor, however, it doesn't open until April 1st.

Additionally, all forms of the owners created, and regionally exquisite flatware is available for purchase, as are wine themed products and nick-knacks. Looking around the gift shop and tasting bar, there are so many neat and unique things to purchase or learn about, including the history of the building.

Listen, you may have come to Potosi for the beer, but I hope you took a second to enjoy some of the best tasting local-wine I have had in a while. I will definitely be making a return visit with my wife this summer.

Besides, the area has plenty to do for a weekend of fun. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a serene place to take a load off, Whispering Bluffs Winery is the perfect stop. Its combination of award-winning wines and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in the Tri-State area. Keep scrolling to see all the photos from my visit.

There's Even More to See and Do in Wisconsin!