How to Organize an Oklahoma Winery Tour

Oklahoma is home to a growing and thriving wine business. Wineries can be found all around the state, but they are most common in the central portion. From the Turkey Creek Winery in far western Oklahoma to Sailing Horse Vineyards at Lake Eufala, organizing a wine tour is as easy as taking a drive down one of Oklahoma's major highways.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Go online to find Oklahoma wineries (see Who Can Help below). The Oklahoma Wines Web site provides links to individual wineries and calendars of special events.

2. Choose from among the more than 30 wineries in the state. Many are located along Interstate 44 just north and east of Oklahoma City.

3. Contact each winery along your chosen route. Some are open only certain days of the week or by appointment only.

4. Decide if you want to take a day trip to a few wineries or spend several days visiting many. You can easily find hotels near wineries along the major highways.

5. Time your trip to coincide with one of the many festivals sponsored by the wineries. Spring and early summer are good times to find live music and other entertainment.

6. Plan a private party at one of the wineries. Many will host events ranging from a birthday party to a girls' night out.

Tips & Warnings

• For an out-of-the-way wine tour, check out Indian Creek Village in Ringwood and Plain View Winery in Lahoma.
• Understand that a winery tour is suitable for adults over the age of 21. Children and underage adults cannot participate in wine tastings.
• Exercise restraint on your winery tour. It is easy to drink too much when tasting all those luscious Oklahoma wines. Consider designating a nondrinking driver for your group.