Bel-Aire Estates Winery

October 12th, 2013, my mother and I were on our way to Saint Ansgar, IA. This was the only winery left within two hours from my house that I had left to visit. Bel-Aire Winery was just a few miles out of Saint Ansgar and just off the main road was a big sign for the winery. We pulled off onto the gravel road and it was a short drive before you came upon the next sign to turn onto the property. We pulled up the drive which was lined with apple trees. There were a couple more signs that lead back to the tasting room. Upon entering the tasting room, we were greeted by the owner. They had a nice little tasting bar, some shelving with bottles of wine and a few items for sale too. We decided to start with the tasting and the owner asked what we liked for wine. I told her I preferred semi-dry to sweet wines and I didn't mind dry wines if they didn't leave cotton balls in my mouth. She suggested four wines that they currently had to offer. I believe the first one we tried was their Bluebell which was a semi-sweet rose. It was quite good so we tried the Rosey Ass wine next. This wine was another rose but it was sweeter than the last. I believe the next one we tried was their Happy Ass which was a sweet apple wine. The last we tried was their Strawberry-Rhubarb. I think this was my favorite of theirs because of the shocking taste profile. You first get that sharp rhubarb taste at first sip and then you finish with a smooth strawberry flavor. It was awesome how it started tart and finished smooth and sweet. We were informed that they change their available wines regularly so it is best to check back on their website to see what wines they have available at the time.
After enjoying their samples and having conversation with the owner, we decided to look around and go through the items they had for sale. I ended up buying two bottles of wine, their Strawberry-Rhubarb of course, and then a bottle of their Rosey Ass. But I think my favorite buy of the day was the bead necklace that was the shape of a grape cluster. I figured that I had been to enough wineries and had drank enough wine by now that I deserved to wear and represent the fruit of the vine.
We had a great little road trip and we were glad we finally made it to Saint Ansgar to Bel-Aire Winery. Our only complaint about their winery was that the fruit flies would not leave us alone. It was annoying but our visit didn't take too long so we were only bothered for a little bit. We both thought they had a cute little acreage and had a good little winery. If you are looking for a quick stop to get some wine, this is the place to go. It is not too far from the Minnesota border and not too far from Northwood where the casino is. It was a good road trip and I am glad I got to spend the day with my mother.