When one envisions wineries, the idyllic vineyards of Napa Valley or the rolling hills of Tuscany often spring to mind. However, tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood in Yukon, Oklahoma, Farfalla Wines offers a unique and unexpected wine-tasting experience that brings the flavors of the West Coast to the Heartland.
Farfalla Wines is a remarkable departure from the ordinary winery experience. Here, the journey commences not at a grand entrance or sprawling vineyard, but in the warm heart of a tranquil community. Tucked away amidst the homes, this local hideout promises a wine-tasting adventure that blends southern charm with coastal sophistication.
2025 Update: The tasting room is currently closed; however, you can still place orders for pickup. You can also find their wine at these locations.
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The Farfalla Wines Story
The story of Farfalla Wines unfolds with a resolute commitment to quality and a passionate pursuit of crafting exceptional wines. To achieve this, the winery sources its grapes from the sun-drenched vineyards of Lodi, California, renowned for its fertile soil and ideal climate for grape cultivation. The outcome is a wine list that spans from a sumptuously sweet and luscious peach chardonnay to a robust and complex Tuscan-style sangiovese.
The proprietors, Ray and Cathy Wright, have a family history of investing in Yukon. Ray is a descendant of the Kroutil family who played a pivotal role in the development of the city. John Kroutil, a Czech immigrant and influential Oklahoma philanthropist and entrepreneur, was a founding member of Progress Brewery. Following the end of the prohibition, he and his partner, G.F. Streich, started the brewing company in an old barn that was less than 2 blocks from where the Wright’s winery sits today.
Later opening at 501 N. Douglas, the six-story brew house could churn out a staggering 100,000 barrels a day. In a time marked by economic hardship during the Great Depression, the brewery provided income to a workforce of 1,000 individuals. Progress Beer was more than just a beverage; it was a point of pride and a symbol of Oklahoma’s unwavering spirit. Remarkably, this brewery was one of just three granted a brewing license in the state of Oklahoma. It was also the longest surviving of the trio and later sold to Lone Star.
What Makes the Winery Special
You might be surprised to find out that wineries in Oklahoma aren’t all that uncommon. In fact, they’re everywhere. Some of them are hiding in plain sight while others require a detour off the beaten path. You can find them tucked in bustling areas of Oklahoma City or along back roads in the Oklahoma countryside. Some, like Waddell Winery in Ada, have their own vineyards while others ship grapes to their facility from estates in California and other well-known wine regions.
I’ve spent quite a bit of time touring wineries lately and while they all have their own unique factor, Farfalla is one that particularly stands out. Admittedly, most of their wines are a little sweeter than I prefer, but the atmosphere is unlike anything I’ve ever found in a winery. It truly feels like you’re visiting a friend’s house to break away from the hustle and bustle and just enjoy a glass of wine.
It’s a Local Hideout Unlike Any Other
Farfalla Wines is not your run-of-the-mill winery; it’s more of a local hideout. Visitors are in for a delightful surprise as they navigate the neighborhood streets to find this charming oasis. As you approach the gate, a stone garden path guides you to the vintner’s very own backyard. Strolling along this path, one cannot help but feel the sense of anticipation as if uncovering a rare treasure.
It’s a hidden oasis, a secret garden of sorts, where guests can unwind and savor the tranquility of their surroundings. Part of what distinguishes Farfalla Wines is the welcoming and relaxed ambiance that envelops you as soon as you set foot on the property. Here, you won’t find sprawling acres of vineyards sprawling out before you. Instead, you’ll encounter an inviting space adorned with patio furniture and chaise lounges, enticing you to unwind and sip your favorite wine poolside. It’s a delightful fusion of sophistication and comfort, immediately making you feel right at home.
Unconventional Spaces Create an Intimate Experience
Farfalla Wines’ setting is unique. The owners, true innovators and passionate wine connoisseurs, transformed their residence into a welcoming haven for visitors to share in their love of wine. Another distinctive aspect of Farfalla Wines is its unconventional use of space. The tasting room resides within what was once the pool house, while the motorcycle workshop has been cleverly repurposed into the fermenting room. As you sip on their carefully crafted wines, you can’t help but appreciate the innovative spirit that defines this winery.
So, the next time you find yourself in Yukon, make sure to seek out Farfalla Winery. Follow the stone path, bask in the tranquil surroundings, and savor the exquisite wines that bring a taste of the west coast to the heartland. It’s a winery experience like no other, and one that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Other Wineries to Visit Nearby
If you want to make a day tour of it or just want a few ideas for nearby wineries, here are a few places to add to your list.
Flower Shop Winery and Pizzeria
Flower Shop Winery and Pizzeria started in Yukon when the business owner, Bret Kappus, bought an old flower shop to open his first location. Kappus’ work carries on a family legacy of winemaking that began in the 1930’s. Memories of Grandpa and the wine cellar on their old ranch fuel a passion to honor the patriarch with meticulously crafted wine. The pizza isn’t bad either. Actually, it’s fantastic. If you’re in the mood for gourmet, made-from-scratch pizza, Flower Shop has a menu of innovative pies to pair with just the right wine.
The large outdoor space, live music, scratch pizza and craft wine all pair up to make this one of the hippest spots in town. Flower Shop Winery is just half a mile away from Farfalla on Main Street. If you head over to the Chickasha Festival of Lights this holiday season, there is a second location just before you reach the giant leg lamp on Main Street.
Strebel Creek Winery
Strebel Creek is a small winery in Oklahoma City. It’s located on Macarthur, just off of Hefner Rd. Even though it’s on a busy road, Strebel Creek can be easy to miss if you aren’t looking closely. However, you can look for the small vineyard that runs up against Macarthur and that is where you will find the entrance. Gary Strebel and his wife Sherry run the business. Sherry focuses on the gift and often hosts the tastings. Gary, a practicing OB/GYN, is the vintner.
For over a decade, winemaking was a hobby he enjoyed during his free time. Today he continues to create wines in one of Oklahoma City’s longest running wineries. Strebel Creek is a humble winery, but it is well worth the visit. If you tend to prefer dry wines, you’ll likely favor a few of the varietals in your complimentary tasting. Strebel Creek Winery is only about 20 minutes from Farfalla Wines.
Coal Creek Vineyard and Winery (and Summerside)
Coal Creek is one of ten wineries on the Chickasaw Country Wine trail. This winery is a little further, but it’s a two-for-one experience on a beautiful countryside property in Tuttle. Summerside Winery was previously located in Vinita and well-loved by the community. Coal Creek was opening up around the same time the owners at Summerside were retiring. The merger serendipitously came together when Coal Creek Vineyard and Winery decided to purchase the business for its equipment.
Ultimately, the new winery chose to keep Summerside alive by moving it to Tuttle, establishing it as a sister property, and continuing the product line. You can conveniently sample them all within the same facility. Enjoying refreshing whites or robust reds inside the tasting room or on the covered patio deck. Coal Creek also features a gorgeous wedding venue if you’re looking for somewhere special to exchange your vows in Oklahoma.
A Few Things to Know about Farfalla Wines
When can you visit Farfalla Wines?
Farfalla Wines typically opens the patio and tasting room a couple of weekends each month. You can also schedule private tastings and events. You can check their calendar for opening dates on their website. As with any small family business, I’d also recommend calling in advance if you’re visiting from out of town.
Can you purchase bottles at the winery?
Yes. You may purchase wine by the bottle directly from the winery.
What is the address for Farfalla Wines?
The winery is located at 505 Poplar Avenue in Yukon, Oklahoma. You may feel lost when you find the gps guiding you into a residential neighborhood but don’t worry. The winery is part of the owner’s home.
What does Farfalla mean?
“Farfalla” is an Italian word meaning “butterfly.” The owners saw fit to name their winery Farfalla as a metaphor of the changes that growth provides throughout life and business.