In lush rolling hills and fertile soil of the Southern Minnesota River Valley, lies the award-winning Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery, and Distillery. On a summer morning, you can see over 13 acres of meticulously tended vines bathed in the warmth of the nurturing sun. Sunsets illuminate the gorgeous landscape and creek that embraces the winery. This place is where magic and memories pair perfectly with a family of wines that are completely redefining the industry with their unique craftsmanship.

The history of the Mankato area is steeped in the culture and heritage of the Dakota Indian Tribes who were once prevalent in this area. “Chankaska,” in Dakota, means “forest enclosed,” and is the namesake for the creek that gently rolls throughout our property. To respect and honor this unique historical detail, we chose to name the winery after Chankaska creek.

Before our winery was even conceptualized, the Dakota Indian tribe roamed, hunted, and rooted their culture in the rich and fertile lands of what we now know as the Southern Minnesota River Valley. Giving attention to the creek that ripples through the present ranch property, and the lush forest that embraces us, the Dakota named the creek, “Chankaska,” meaning “enclosed by forest.”