The vineyard at The Gardens of Castle Rock continues to thrive—expanding not just in lush vine growth, but in total footprint and grape varietals.
To recap the journey: the first phase of the vineyard was started in 2021 with an initial planting of 102 vines of Frontenac Gris, Adalmiina, Petite Pearl, and Crimson Pearl varietals. In 2025, we doubled our footprint by adding 120 new vines. We selected Prairie Star and St. Pepin—two white varietals bred to adapt to the extreme cold of Minnesota winters.
Expanding the vineyard required far more than just digging a few holes. First came heavy land clearing… and we mean heavy. We’re talking twelve 30-foot pine trees, along with a massive 55 ft maple that fell during a strong storm in March 2025. True to our sustainable mission, The Workshop at The Gardens harvested all the wood to be cut and dried using the onsite sawmill and wood kiln. (We’re very self-sufficient!)
The trees may be gone, but the stumps remained. After grinding down all 13 stumps and clearing the space, the hard-packed soil required substantial tilling. Once the soil had been cultivated, it was time to hand-dig 120 holes (each roughly 16” deep by 12” wide)—and it wasn’t easy. Thanks to the mature trees that once stood in this spot, the leftover root systems had to be extracted from a quarter of the holes. Once the holes had been dug, the 120 vines were planted and fitted with a protective grow tube to accelerate shoot growth.
To support the future vine canopy, we installed sturdy wooden end posts and steel line posts. In 2026, we began stringing high-tensile trellis wires to support the vines as they climb. And now we patiently wait. Grapevines typically take 3 years to establish a meaningful harvest, and 4–5 years to produce a full yield. So, we spend our days mowing, managing weeds, and keeping curious critters like raccoons, wild turkeys, and deer at bay.
With the vineyard becoming a popular backdrop for wedding photos, first looks, and private vows, it was time to build a covered wooden pavilion. This isn’t a kit or a preconstructed package. It was 100% designed and built onsite by The Workshop at The Gardens, just like every other structure on our property. We don’t do faux, and we don’t do artificial; we build authentic structures with true craftsmanship.
The next step is to lay the paver floor and pathway, followed by designing the surrounding landscape to anchor The Vineyard Pavilion seamlessly into the vineyard setting.
Situated at the south end of the vineyard, The Vineyard Pavilion adds a charming architectural feature to the space while serving as a beautiful setting for capturing special moments, no matter the weather.
What will we do with all these grapes? We are thrilled to share that planning is underway for a farm winery on the north side of The Gardens’ property—just a short, scenic walk from the vineyard itself! Stay tuned as this exciting addition grows.
Bathed in golden hour light, cold-hardy grapevines thrive along our custom metal vertical trellising—creating a vibrant, romantic backdrop. Photo credit: Summit Hill Studio
Lush green canopies and full grapevines frame the walkway through The Vineyard in September, showcasing the vines’ magnificent seasonal growth. Photo credit: Brooke W Images
As summer shifts into autumn, the leaves of our cold-hardy grapevines turn rich shades of yellow and amber, highlighting The Vineyard’s natural beauty. Photo credit: Vick Photography
Wondering where we bought the kit for this covered timber pavilion? We didn’t. The Vineyard Pavilion is 100% custom-designed and built by The Workshop at The Gardens—just like every single structure on our grounds. Photo credit: The Gardens of Castle Rock
Overhanging leaves and lush side-canopies create an intimate, natural enclosure for private vows. Photo credit: Breese & Brundle Photography
A lush, living wall of grape leaves adds rich depth and texture to the grounds…..plus it makes a romantic background. Photo credit: Cameron & Tia
Wide grass pathways stretch between sturdy wooden posts and leafy rows, making it the perfect place for a playful photoshoot with your photographer. Photo credit: Photos by Mich
Wondering where we bought the kit for this covered pavilion? We didn’t. The Vineyard Pavilion is 100% custom-designed and built by The Workshop at The Gardens, exactly like every single structure on our grounds.
Glowing in late-afternoon light, the rich, green expanse of The Vineyard stretches along the venue’s perimeter. Photo credit: Photos From James
In late autumn, there is a quiet beauty in the post-harvest rest of The Vineyard. Photo credit: Eileen K. Photography
Early summer brings the start of grape clusters tucked beneath the beginnings of a lush green canopy. Photo credit: Laura Shepherd Images
Fallon’s floral-detailed dress and sweeping tulle blend seamlessly with the lush green canopy of grapevines. Photo credit: Nik Linde Photos
Golden autumn hues transform the grapevine rows into a stunning, vibrant wedding day backdrop. Photo credit: Debra Bernard Photography
Soaking up the mid-summer sun, the dense canopy of vines shows strong seasonal growth. Photo credit: Brooklyn Faith Photography
With The Vineyard Pavilion complete, including the custom gutter system, the next step is to lay the paver floor and pathway, followed by designing the surrounding landscape to anchor The Vineyard Pavilion seamlessly into the vineyard setting. Photo credit: The Gardens of Castle Rock
The Crimson Pearl varietal is known for producing tight clusters, having excellent disease resistance, and the ability to withstand cold northern winters. Photo credit: Karen Feder Photography
Meticulous seasonal maintenance is required to keep The Vineyard rows thriving and perfectly structured. Photo credit: Bellagala
The pairing of vibrant green foliage against a manicured turf creates the perfect pathways throughout The Vineyard. Photo credit: Bonita Jane Photography
Bathed in a warm golden-hour glow, the angled wooden end-posts provide vital tension support for the vineyard lines. Photo credit: Jojo’s Photos & Studio
