Pubs, Wineries and Craft Breweries Are Thriving in This Iowa Community
While the local beverage scene barely existed at the turn of the millennium, a craft revolution has since transformed Ames into a premier destination for a perfectly poured pint or a local glass of blanc. Over the last two decades, the region has enjoyed a significant beverage boom, with a surge of new establishments bringing fresh energy and a “public house” spirit to the area.
This craft-beverage explosion spans both award-winning wineries and experimental breweries, fueling a newfound excitement among residents and visitors alike. From art-filled taprooms in the Iowa countryside to self-serve wine bars downtown, local producers continue to expand their reach, proving that the region offers much more than just the basics.
Here is a look at the breweries and wineries taking root in the region:
In This Article
The Mucky Duck Pub
Looking for a taste of the UK in the heart of the Hawkeye State? The Mucky Duck Pub stands as the go-to destination for authentic British fare and a perfectly poured pint.
Whether craving classics like bangers and mash or signature golden-brown fish and chips, the menu features the best of British comfort food designed to please every palate. Beyond the food, the establishment embraces the “public house” tradition. The bar serves a full rotation of legendary English ales on draught, along with a wide variety of mixed drinks.
At the Duck, the company is just as good as the stout. This community hub gathers neighbors from all walks of life to connect and swap stories. Patrons can step inside, grab a seat and enjoy the most unique pub experience in Ames.
Alluvial Brewing
Alluvial is located in a rustic-looking building on 40 acres of organic farmland just outside Ames in Franklin Township. Owner Elliot Thompson has described the brewery as offering “small-batch craft beer in a free-range Iowa farm setting.”
There are about 10 craft beers on tap at a time, many with creative names such as “Baldylocks Blonde” and “Gubernator Schwarzbier.” The brews can be enjoyed at a taproom with nearly 50 board games.
Torrent Brewing Company
It doesn’t get much more local than the originals of Torrent Brewing Company. The brewery was founded by Andy McCormick, a longtime Ames resident who brewed his first batch of beer on the stovetop in his kitchen at home.
McCormick has moved his operation out of the house and is now sharing his brews from a downtown Ames building that includes a 157-seat taproom. There are more than a dozen beers on tap, plus a few varieties of ciders. And while McCormick didn’t bring his kitchen with him, outside food is welcome.
The Cellar Winery at White Oak
Located atop one of the rolling hills south of Ames in Cambridge, The Cellar offers wine tasting in a picturesque setting. The winery is owned by the husband-and-wife team of John Barber and Barb Hokel, who turned their shared love of wine into a business in 2012.
The Cellar has several special events throughout the year, including regular live music performances. One of the highlights is the August grape harvest, when visitors can climb into a stomp tank and squish their own grapes.
Prairie Moon Winery and Vineyards
In 2000, Steven Nissen planted the first vines that would become a 13-acre vineyard. In addition to a variety of wines from grapes grown on-site, Prairie Moon also produces mead made from local clover honey and hard apple ciders.
There is a 275-seat banquet hall for weddings and other large gatherings, and a party suite for smaller events. Wine flights are available in the Moonlight Lounge tasting room. Instead of pouring from bottles, Prairie Moon is kegging wines for the tasting room.
This article first appeared in the 2019 edition of the Livability Ames, Iowa and The Greater Boone, Greene, Hamilton and Story County Region magazine but has since been fact-checked and updated.