Monkey Island Winery And Cottages — Attraction in Grove

We are no strangers to wineries. Large and small, scientific and intuitive, every social strata - we have done them. The memorable ones are those where we build relationships. This is something that is rare, and doubly so at a large operation unless you're there purchasing multiple cases. Then there's Val, and the "Come on in!" is sincere. He'll tell you that his one-man-show is an advantage because he can go where the winds take him. A local oversupply of bananas - will it make a wine? Let's find out! Rose hips and blueberry in a mead? Let's find out! Jalapeno and Carolina Reaper pepper in a white wine? Yes, apparently, but best had in a shot and a different heat experience that you'll expect! His experience in the traditional side is evident as well - Val will take you to Bordeaux as well with his reds. They are complex and worthy of taking time to contemplate. If he has any "Trilogy" left you want it and you want to ask about how the noble grapes are doing. Again, the sincerity is part and parcel of the experience here. He's a natural host.

Then, three comfortable cottages within a 50-yard walk! Each will comfortably sleep four and are available both by AirBnB or right through the winery. Pet-friendly, to boot! You're also on a working horse ranch where you're encouraged to see the animals - they have miniatures in the menagerie!

You also happen to be on one of the largest lakes in Oklahoma with serious fishing and off-roading minutes away. In case you needed...

Signage and directions are poor, if you don't keep your eyes peeled you will definitely miss the wine shanty made of rusted aluminum siding, about the size of an average garden shed. Once inside, everything is covered in a fine layer of dust indicative of the last time the owners saw a real vineyard. No grapes are grown on-site but every bottle is sealed here, made from various stages of fermented juice from wholesalers in Ontario. Do not speak, socialize, or actually try the wines without express permission from the hosts after they deliver opening remarks and diatribe. You will be goaded, condescending remarks will be made, but try your best to forget every other vineyard, label, and tasting you've ever had because this is a place for big picture concepts! The relentless experience will take over an hour as the winemaker reminds you of the illegalities of the number of pours being offered and occasionally sings off key. Possibly worrisome: the self professed wino on-site doesn't know the meaning of the word "bunk." In hindsight, the term could be applied to the entire outing. Please don't...

Absolutely amazing experience. We visited from Dallas over New Years and stumbled upon his winery as an online recommendation. Val is so incredibly knowledgeable, generous, and just an all out awesome host. He is modest when it comes to the wine he creates too. I for one thought they were all awesome! I’m not an ignorant wine drinker but I’m also not a fancy connoisseur, I’ve been to more than a few incredible vineyards and have had my fair share of rare bottles, but this just really might be the best experience I’ve had. The wine is solid and I promise you’ll find something you want to take home. Go give him a shot, the creative names he gave to each of his bottles too will leave you smiling....