About Crow River Winery
Crow River Winery has been growing Minnesota cold-climate grapes on 32 acres of vineyard near Hutchinson since 2004, making it one of the more established farm wineries in the state. Located two miles east of town on Highway 7, the property has expanded steadily from a modest tasting room into a full-scale destination with a bistro, event center, outdoor courtyard, and conference facilities that can accommodate up to 400 guests. The winery is open seven days a week, year-round, which is itself notable in a state where many smaller producers operate on limited seasonal schedules. The wines are handcrafted on-site from grapes grown in five separate vineyards surrounding the property. Cold-hardy varieties developed for Minnesota's growing conditions form the core of the lineup, and the winery also produces hard ciders from its own orchard and pours eight beer taps alongside the wine program.
The bistro serves artisan food designed for pairing, with handmade pizza earning a particular reputation among regular visitors. Crow River also hosts comedy nights, live music, seasonal festivals, and a busy wedding and events calendar. Owner Mike McBrady is a visible presence, personally responding to visitor feedback and maintaining the kind of hands-on hospitality that keeps people coming back. The winery's courtyard is the center of the experience during warmer months, with vineyard views, outdoor seating, and regular entertainment. Phoebe the border collie serves as the unofficial greeter. For visitors exploring central Minnesota, Crow River Winery is a substantial stop that delivers well beyond what the highway sign might suggest.