Our Story

Chankaska Creek Ranch, LLC was formed on June 19, 2008, out of a pure passion for wine and the artistry of winemaking. Our founders' goal was to produce the finest wines possible and create a unique experience for our patrons at the ranch. 

We believe the experience of wine extends far beyond the palate. Aromas can return us to childhood memories, a bouquet of flavors can remind us of a special event from the past, and wine shared with those we love brings people together over conversation and food. wine is an experience, and we pair ours perfectly with the special moments of life. Enjoy a sip above the rest at Chankaska.

VINEYARD

The beauty and abundance of the earth provided for and sustained the Dakota tribe in the past, we use the soil that is so richly steeped in history, to foster truly unique grapes for our wines. We are honored to have such a special parcel of land to build our dream upon and remain respectful to its heritage and story.

The lineage of grapes at Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery was christened in 2008. As grapes take up to three years to grow before the first harvest, we then turned our attention to the rest of the Ranch!

RANCH

In the fall of 2010, construction began on our 11,000 square foot winery and tasting room with an opening date set for May 2012. In the buildings, we strove to create an atmosphere of rustic warmth, with a sophisticated edge. We selected repurposed and aged woods offset by various metals and ironwork. Our goal is to make our guests feel that the winery was warm, friendly, accessible and unlike anything, they have ever experienced. 

We stay true to our historical roots of the land and estate. So, we did not tear down the original farmhouse near the winery. Instead, to celebrate this unique structure built in 1864 and homesteaded as Chankaska Creek Ranch, we restored it and turned it into our winemaker’s on-site residence. This brings a whole new caliber of proximity to ‘babysitting the grapes,” because the vineyard was right outside our winemaker’s front door! Later this building was converted to office spaces, as well as a bridal changing area.

EVENTS & GROUNDS

As our dream started to solidify, we turned our focus on creating beautiful and functional outdoor event venues for our guests. In all, over seven such sites were created to perfectly pair with any occasion our patrons may wish to host. They also serve as sites for Chankaska-sponsored events throughout the year and allow us to partner with amazing local businesses, and non-profit philanthropic ventures, and offer something that is truly unlike anything else in the area for our guests!

Sparing no expense, our event sites are meticulously landscaped and maintained. Our floral and fauna architecture was carefully chosen to be colorful and balanced, but not overstated to pull away from the focus of an event, or a bride! Since their creation, the outside venues have become one of the most popular wedding venues in the entire state!

ART OF LIFE

Chankaska was so proud to be chosen, in 2015, to participate in the interactive sculpture tour. Several beautiful works of art and sculpture are stationed at various points on our property. Grab a glass of wine or cocktail, take a walk around, and check out our Sculpture Stroll!

PHILANTHROPY

We agreed from the inception of our winery that giving back to the local community would be a pivotal piece of our business practice. To be able to do this through art that is complemented by our estate is the perfect pairing! It has since become a highlight for many of our guests when they visit us.