Wild Mountain Winery

Alan and Judy Olson ventured into grape cultivation in 1994, after deciding to move away from organic gardening. They started with grape cuttings from Elmer Swenson’s farm, unaware of how significantly these would alter their plans and future. By 2010, they had inaugurated Wild Mountain Winery in a facility now known as the “Bottle Shop.” Initially a modest venture, it marked their bold entry into an unfamiliar field. Over a decade later, their vineyard and winery have emerged as top-tier establishments in Minnesota.

The Olsons bought their farm near Almelund in 1982 and, after extensive research over twelve years, found the land ideal for viticulture. They began producing their own wine in 2008 and launched their winery in 2010, buoyed by multiple accolades from the Minnesota State Fair. Today, Alan and Judy, along with their children Andrew, Mark, and Jane, cultivate grapes, trade wine, and manage the winery on a 15.5-acre plot that stands as the second highest elevation in Chisago County, honored as the 2013 Farm Family of the Year in Chisago County.