We are halfway through our wedding venue tour, so I think what we need most right now is not a coffee break, but a wine break, and what better place than Oscar Carl Vineyard. Located
We are halfway through our wedding venue tour, so I think what we need most right now is not a coffee break, but a wine break, and what better place than Oscar Carl Vineyard. Located within Sioux City city limits, this local winery is on the very edge of town and located on the property of Roy and Melanie.
Moving to their acreage in 1989, Roy and Melanie would vacation in Tennessee twice a year, taking back roads all the way there. Along the way, they would happen upon numerous bed and breakfasts, as well as many local wineries, which spawned their imagination.
Everything happens for a Riesling
Originally playing with the idea to open their very own bed and breakfast, they soon decided on a vineyard after attending an Iowa Winegrowers Association conference. Here, they got the inspiration they needed to begin building accommodations for a gathering area, wine tasting room, and a patio overlooking the Loess Hills, allowing patrons to enjoy the sunsets accompanied by the beautiful landscape of their very own vineyard.
After planting their first 200 Frontenac blanc grapevines in 2016, Roy and Melanie went on to plant another 200 in 2018, followed by 100 more in 2019, 500 in 2020 and a whopping 600 in 2021. For a total of 1600 grapevines planted on their property, and with the guidance of Iowa State Extension, along with the sponsorship of the Northern Grapes Project, Oscar Carl became Woodbury county’s first and only commercial vineyard.
Getting its name from the maternal grandfathers of both Roy and Melanie, Oscar Carl Vineyard has gone on to win best in show at the Iowa State Fair, along with numerous other awards since its initial first harvest on Labor Day 2018. Offering a selection of eleven different wine varieties, all of which are vinted from Iowa grapes, patrons come from all over to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this small local business.
You had me at merlot
In fact, during my initial visit there was a Toastmasters Networking Event being held in their board room. Other rooms and spaces available for rent include the upper patio, keeping room and covered patio. Rental fees range anywhere from $50-$250 per hour depending on what room, which day and how many guests you plan to have attend your event.
Surrounded by several members of the Siouxland Toastmasters, I was surprised that Melanie herself was able to sit down with me for a quick unplanned interview. I congratulated her and Roy’s success, and she insisted that they have been blessed to have a wonderful close-knit group of friends coming to their aid and helping out on the property over the past five years.
She also informed me that they do not make the wine on site, rather they have Anne Zwink of Soldier Creek Winery in Fort Dodge do the production. This presents a win-win for Roy and Melanie, who are able to plant the grapevines and sell the wine, without having to hold a license and be inspected. They can do what they’ve wanted to since the beginning, grow and drink wine with friends.
Expert in pour decisions
So, if you find yourself wanting a vintage, yet slightly upscale venue for your event, then consider Oscar Carl Vineyard. Your guests will be able to experience a wine flight like I did! With your choice of four wines, this gives you a chance to try different styles of wine without having to commit to a full 9-ounce glass. In addition, make sure you come hungry and order a Roberto’s Pizza. Operated out of Dunlap, Iowa, this company specializes in making quality frozen pizzas for not only the grocery store, but also partnering up with local businesses all over Siouxland. I might have to write a post about them at a later date, but for now let’s just enjoy the tasty options you’ll have to choose from.
Personally, I wouldn’t mind having frozen pizza at my wedding, since I am more of a realist and enjoy the simple pleasures of just having friends and family in one place, but if you were wanting something more practical then look at Oscar Carl’s wedding packages via their website (https://oscarcarlvineyard.com/).
And finally, be sure to check out their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/OscarCarlVineyard) and Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/oscarcarlvineyard/?hl=en) for weekly specials and maybe even look into holding your bachelorette party here. I’ve been seeing a lot of “Paint on the Patio” social events that look like so much fun!
Happy Planning
Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tues – Thurs: 3pm to 8pm
Friday: 3pm to 9pm
Saturday: 1pm to 9pm
Sunday: Closed
712-898-3400
473 Buchanan Avenue
Sioux City, Iowa 51106
***The photos below are not mine. Source (https://www.facebook.com/OscarCarlVineyard)
