Winzerwald Winery hosts January Sips & Samples over cold-weather weekend

Winzerwald Winery opened its January Sips & Samples event this weekend, running Jan. 17 and continuing through today, Jan. 18, with sessions from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 26300 North Indian Lake Road in Bristow. The weekend offered four food samples paired with four double tastes of wine and a menu preview of soups and dessert, with organizers billing the gathering as a way to "sip, sample, and savor the season."

The two-day tasting drew residents from across Perry County and neighboring towns for an indoor winter option that combined light fare with the winery's releases. For local businesses, weekend events like this generate foot traffic during a slow season and keep staff and vendors working when tourism dips after the holidays. Small hospitality operations in Bristow and nearby communities often rely on these winter draws to smooth income across the year.

Public health and safety were front of mind for many attendees. Local health considerations around events that serve alcohol include pacing drinks, staying hydrated between tastings, and arranging sober transportation. For people taking prescriptions or with medical conditions affected by alcohol, moderation and preplanning remain important. Food safety and allergen information are also relevant when venues serve sample plates; attendees should check with staff about ingredients and portion sizes.

Beyond immediate health concerns, events such as January Sips & Samples speak to broader equity and access issues in county cultural life. Ticketed tastings and curated menus can exclude families or residents on fixed incomes from communal social opportunities. Community leaders and venue operators can expand inclusion by offering a range of price points, clear accessibility accommodations, and transparent allergen labeling so more people can participate safely.

Winzerwald's setting on North Indian Lake Road made it a convenient stop for drivers traveling county roads this weekend, but the rural location also highlights transportation barriers for those without cars. Arranging designated drivers or ride services is the practical option for guests who plan to sample multiple pours.

For Perry County residents, the event underscored the value of local gathering places through the winter months. If you attended, consider supporting the winery and other small businesses that host seasonal events; if you missed the weekend, contact Winzerwald to learn about upcoming tastings, verify event details and accessibility, and plan safe travel. Community-supported seasonal programming helps sustain local hospitality jobs and keeps Bristow active during the cold months.