Carved and enriched by glaciers and kept moist by its many lakes and rivers, the picturesque landscape of the Lake Geneva area is perfect for growing a banquet of delicious things.
Farm tours, winery visits and festivals give groups a chance to experience the richness of the Earth and taste the harvest at its freshest.
- From May through December, AEppelTreow Winery at Brightonwoods Orchard in Burlington specializes in a wide assortment of ciders made from Wisconsin-grown apples. Its unusual name means “apple true” in Old English. The farm focuses on growing heirloom varieties—types of apples no longer grown commercially—which furnish unusual flavors and a taste of produce at its finest. Their unique beverages include apple and pear wine, champagne-style cider and pommeau, an aperitif made from apples. The facility welcomes reservations for groups of 10 to 60 for tastings, tours of the cider production facility, education about sustainable growing methods and the chance to talk to its artisans.
- Apple Barn Orchard and Winery, located in Elkhorn, grows strawberries, pumpkins and 12 varieties of apples, and makes delectable wines and ciders out of its fruits and wild berries. The farm offers groups scheduled wine tastings and one-hour tours of the farm with the chance to pick their own three-pound bag of apples during the season in September and October. In June and July, visitors can pick their own strawberries, and in November and December, there are Christmas activities. Picnic space is available.
- For decades, Elegant Farmer has been turning the produce of its orchards into delicious apple sauce, fruit breads, muffins and jams. Its apple pies, baked and served in paper bags, have been called “the best pie in America” by Gourmet and the Wall Street Journal. The farm offers educational tours for groups of 20 and more. Special events including hayrides, holiday markets and square dance hoedowns can be arranged. Events can include a hot dog lunch. Elegant Farmer is located between East Troy and Mukwonago and is open year-round.
- Each September, Lake Geneva Wine Festival draws thousands to taste wines from all over the world and auction off bottles to raise money for family-related charities. Special events take place at venues all over town and include tastings, dinners, seminars and a champagne brunch cruise. This year, the festival will be held Sept. 11-13 at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa and several other locations.
AEppelTreow Winery
262.878.5345 www.aeppeltreow.com
Apple Barn Orchard and Winery 262.728.3266 www.applebarnorchardandwinery.com
Elegant Farmer 262.363.6771 www.elegantfarmer.com
Lake Geneva Wine Festival 262.245.8635 www.lakegenevawinefestival.com
