Bear Creek Winery Launches $2 Million Expansion for Year-Round Fun

BREAKING NEWS: Bear Creek Winery in Fargo is set to transform into a year-round destination, fueled by a $1 million Destination Development Grant from the state of North Dakota. The winery, located at 8800 25th St. S., is matching this investment dollar for dollar, highlighting the Ballinger family’s commitment to this ambitious expansion.

Rod Ballinger, the winery’s co-founder, emphasizes the importance of their personal investment, stating, “We have some skin in the game.” This expansion is not just about growth; it’s about enhancing the community’s experience at Bear Creek.

Plans for the winery include exciting new amenities such as boutique lodging, an outdoor stage, pickleball courts, a greenhouse, and a wood-fired pizza oven. Some work has already begun, with the parking lot undergoing an expansion and land cleared for a new events center, part of the upcoming Bear Creek Events & Cultural Center.

Sean Ballinger, general manager and head winemaker, is enthusiastic about the new greenhouse, which will allow for the cultivation of grape varieties. He stated, “Using the greenhouse to grow grapes excites me.” However, his mother, Sue Ballinger, will miss her garden that is being replaced for the new facility.

The planned events center is poised to host a variety of gatherings, from weddings to concerts, and is currently in the design phase. The Ballingers aim for a farm-related aesthetic, with completion expected by early summer 2027.

One recent addition to the winery is an old bridge from the James River, now serving as a picturesque walkway over one of the ponds on the property. This is just one of many improvements aimed at creating a vibrant destination for all seasons.

Sean and Rod Ballinger reflected on the winery’s success, noting that 2021 was a standout vintage. Sean remarked, “It was the perfect vintage. We added the yeast and walked away.” As they welcome visitors, the Ballingers hope to share not just their wine but also the exciting future of Bear Creek Winery.

With these developments, Bear Creek Winery is not just expanding; it’s redefining itself as a community hub for all seasons, promising an array of activities and experiences that will engage locals and visitors alike. Stay tuned for further updates on this transformative project!