Branson, Missouri, isn’t just about live shows and family-friendly attractions. Its location in the Ozarks means access to some surprisingly good wineries and distilleries, making it a solid choice for wine lovers and curious drinkers alike. We especially like the Ozark Craft Beverage – Wine & Shine Tour for its small-group intimacy and variety of tastings, and the Branson VIP Wine Tasting and Dinner Tour for combining wine with a three-course meal and scenic lake views. These experiences showcase not only regional wines but also the Ozarks’ spirit culture, giving visitors a flavorful taste of Missouri’s hidden wine scene.
If you’re considering a visit, know that Branson offers a range of wine-related tours—from quick tastings to luxurious dinners. Whether your style is a laid-back afternoon exploring local wineries or a guided outing with gourmet food, there’s something for every preference and budget. Below, we guide you through each of the top options, so you can choose the one that fits your interests and schedule.
1. Ozark Craft Beverage – Wine & Shine Tour
At number one, the Ozark Craft Beverage – Wine & Shine Tour stands out for its comprehensive half-day itinerary that combines both wineries and distilleries. For around $146, you get approximately four to five hours of tasting at up to four different locations, depending on availability. The tour is limited to small groups, which means more personalized attention from your guide, often a local with deep knowledge of the Ozarks’ alcohol-making traditions.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its diversity. You’ll sample flavored moonshine, rum, wines, and whiskey—something for every palate. Stops might include Bear Creek Winery, Missouri Ridge Distillery, Lindwedel Winery, and Saint James Winery, among others. The tour starts around noon and wraps up by 4 pm, making it an easy half-day activity. One aspect travelers love is that the tour includes free pickup and drop-off from your Branson accommodations, eliminating the need to worry about driving. Reviewers mention the friendly guide Jason, who shares insightful stories and hidden gems, making the experience memorable.
Bottom line: This tour offers an excellent balance of variety, educational value, and convenience. It’s perfect for groups wanting to explore multiple flavors without the hassle of driving themselves.
2. Branson VIP Wine Tasting and Dinner Tour
Second on our list, the Branson VIP Wine Tasting and Dinner Tour blends wine sampling with a 3-course dinner, all within a five-hour window. For $121.50 per person, this experience offers a more upscale approach, perfect for those wanting to combine wine with a scenic meal. The tour takes you to several local wineries and distilleries, where you’ll learn about Missouri’s unique grapes like Norton and Cynthiana, as well as French-American hybrids.
What sets this tour apart is the intimate group size—limited to 18 participants—and the elegant transport in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. As you visit the various venues, you’ll taste different varietals of Missouri wine, including wine slushies and moonshine, making it a fun and relaxed experience. The highlight is the dinner overlooking Lake Taneycomo, where you can unwind and reflect on your tasting journey. Reviewers have described the experience as “beautiful drive,” “wonderful meal,” and “great wine,” emphasizing the seamless blend of education, scenery, and good food.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a refined, all-inclusive experience that combines wine tastings with a memorable dinner and scenic views.
3. Bear Creek Winery and Brewery history, tasting, with lunch tour
Finally, the Bear Creek Winery and Brewery history, tasting, with lunch tour offers a shorter, more relaxed experience lasting about 90 minutes. For $99.95, you’ll explore the historic family-owned Bear Creek property, including their bed and breakfast, chapels, water garden, and event spaces. The tour is as much about local culture as it is about tasting—your host, a local born and raised in the Ozarks, shares stories about the area’s heritage and how the family came to establish a winery, brewery, and resort in this scenic location.
The tour includes coffee, pastries, and a sit-down lunch with the owner, giving you a deeper understanding of Ozarks life and the family’s role in the community. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at local life, combined with a tasting experience in a beautiful setting. Reviewers describe the tour as “a wonderful way to learn about local culture” and appreciate the chance to speak with a local about the area’s evolution.
Bottom line: This experience suits visitors interested in local history and culture, paired with a casual tasting and a relaxing walk around the property.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Branson
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a full day of tasting without driving, Ozark Craft Beverage – Wine & Shine Tour offers the most variety and flexibility. For a more elegant, food-and-wine experience with scenic views, the Branson VIP Wine Tasting and Dinner Tour is perfect. If a shorter, cultural outing sounds appealing, the Bear Creek Winery and Brewery provides a relaxed, personal perspective on local life.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, and consider whether you prefer a quick tasting, a guided dinner, or a culturally immersive walk. Each tour offers a different slice of the Ozarks’ wine and spirits scene, so choose based on the experience you’re craving most.
Branson’s wine tours offer a surprisingly rich taste of Missouri’s craft spirit scene, from small wineries to family-owned breweries. Whether you’re after a fun afternoon, a gourmet dinner, or a cultural experience, these tours provide a well-rounded way to explore the Ozarks’ drinkable side. For many travelers, the best choice is the one that fits their schedule and budget—so don’t wait to book, especially during busy seasons. Cheers to discovering new flavors and stories in Branson!