River Bend Winery (via Instagram).

BEST WINE SELECTION (BAR, RESTAURANT, OR WINERY)

1. River Bend Winery & Distillery
2. Bemis Bluff Winery (Eleva)
3. Infinity Beverages Winery & Distillery

Back on the Best Wine Selection list this year – and in first place – is River Bend Winery & Distillery (10439 33rd Ave., Chippewa Falls). Its owners have longtime roots in the community and their love for the Valley is further felt in River Bend’s high-quality wine (and spirits!). Bemis Bluff Winery (E2960 Hageness Road, Eleva) ranked second this year for its custom fruit wines. Rounding out the top three, Infinity Beverages Winery & Distillery (3460 Mall Drive, Eau Claire) remains a local favorite with its range of sweet-to-dry wines.  –Stephanie Nesja

BEST WINEMAKER

1. River Bend Winery & Distillery
2. Dixon’s Autumn Harvest Winery & Orchard
3. Bemis Bluff Winery

Visualize yourself outside, surrounded by friends, a glass of wine in hand. These winemakers can make that happen. According to voters, River Bend Winery & Distillery (10439 33rd Ave., Chippewa Falls) is the best in glass. Known for its award-winning wines, this family-owned gem opens back up for the season in April. Second goes to Dixon’s Autumn Harvest Winery & Orchard (19947 County Hwy. J, Chippewa Falls), where you can enjoy live music, pick apples, and more! In third place is Bemis Bluff Winery (E2960 Hageness Road, Eleva). Everyone’s a vinner! –Stephanie Nesja

BEST WINE SELECTION (RETAIL)

1. Woodman’s Markets
2. The Coffee Grounds
3. Bemis Bluff Winery

With more than 3,000 wines in stock, Woodman’s Markets (2855 Woodman Drive, Altoona) is the go-to retailer for Chippewa Valley connoisseurs. Whatever your taste or budget – from Dom Perignon to Barefoot — Woodman’s is sure to have something you’ll enjoy. The Coffee Grounds (4212 Southtowne Drive, Eau Claire) offers far more than roasted beans: From whites to reds to Wine of the Month Club selections, this Eau Claire retailer has the fruit of the vine well-covered, too. And local winemaker Bemis Bluff Winery (E2960 Hageness Road, Eleva), makes a wide range of fruit wines, including sweets and semi-sweets all the way to dry varieties (and don’t forget the wine slushies). –Tom Giffey