MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA
PAGE 4
September 28/29, 2021 PAID CONTENT
LOCAL
AWARD WINNING Chankaska Creek Ranch Winery & Distillery has distilled Kremes and spirits — gin, rye, vodka and whiskey — for about six years. (Photo courtesy of Chankaska Creek Ranch Winery & Distillery)
Chankaska Creek Ranch Winery & Distillery offers wine, spirits and food in a relaxing rural setting By JANE MOORE
R
aise a glass to Kent and Jane Schwickert, proprietors of Chankaska Creek Ranch Winery & Distillery in Kasota! The entrepreneurial couple first planted vines on the 25-acre property in 2009 and opened the doors to Chankaska’s tasting room in 2012. Their labor has produced enticing fruit over the past decade. “Initially, our business plan was to provide a great experience with wine, appetizers and wood-fired pizzas for people to enjoy,” said Jane, Chankaska’s general manager. “Then we started distribution to local retailers and liquor stores, and around 2015-16 we decided to distill spirits.” My, how they’ve grown. Today, Chankaska’s award-winning wines, spirits and Kremes are distributed in Minnesota and nationally, and a spacious event center graces the property to accommodate large events yearround. “We can host weddings for up to 350 guests, or concerts for between 400 and 500 people,” said Jane. Whether you’re a party of one or a dozen, Chankaska has an experience for you. “We have tables for one to 12 people,
and we have several smaller spaces for events of 50 people or less,” said Jane. “We can accommodate just about any event here.” Namely, family reunions, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, anniversary celebrations, private tastings, political gatherings, class reunions, fundraisers
IF YOU GO
1179 East Pearl St., Kasota 507-931-0089 chankaskawines.com Hours: Noon-9 p.m. — Monday-Saturday Noon-7 p.m. — Sunday and weddings; all are among the broad range of events Chankaska expertly hosts. “We have a great team of employees,” said Jane, mentioning Chankaska’s 15 full-time staff plus many additional part-time workers. “Some have been with us since the
