Current Policies for COVID-19 / MN Executive Orders

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Normal is not the time we are currently living in, so until we can get back to it, there are many restrictions that must be followed in order for Buffalo Rock Winery to be open to the public. Please read these policies and procedure prior to making a reservations or stopping by. 

Reservations are required to drink wine or eat food on the premises.  No inside access except in inclement weather allowed. Capacity is limited and 6' socially distancing between other parties and staff is required.

Want to stop out last minute during posted hours? No problem, just give a quick call to the winery to check on availability or if no one is waiting at the counter, you may walk-up! If it looks like there are people waiting to be seated, please wait in your vehicle until space opens up. 

Due to the repetitive, interactive nature and proximity between guests and staff, Wine Tastings will not be offered at this time. Wine is currently available by the flight or by the glass on site. Bottle sales to go are also available (no reservation required for bottle sales to go). 

BRW is only accepting reservations through June in case policies and state guidelines change and to gauge interest and demand for adjusting hours. The first two weeks of June will be used to gauge interest and demand, limited hours are currently posted for the third and fourth weeks of June, to be adjusted as needed once it is closer to the dates.  

Online reservations are available for 1-4 guests. A group of 5-6 guests is only allowed if you are all from one household and you will need to call BRW directly to make sure your group can be accommodated. Maximum occupancy is currently restricted to 60 guests outdoors and only 22 guests indoors at one time, but due to limited staffing, Buffalo Rock Winery reserves the right to reduce the number of guests at one time to as few as can best be accommodated. Guests buying wine or food for take out do not count toward the seated guest count and do not require a reservation. 

Reservations are not limited to a set time period, except by business closure time or in the event of rain. Due to limited covered, outdoor space, guests will be asked to limit their reservation to 60 minutes in the event of rain or if there are more than 40 guests on site at any given time. Buffalo Rock Winery owner and staff reserve the right to ask anyone to leave who is obnoxious (drunk, belligerent or otherwise), and authorities will be called upon if necessary. Last call is 30 minutes prior to closing time.

Need a light snack? Meat, cheese, crackers and chocolate (disposable serviceware will be used)  are available for purchase. Limited pop, sports drinks and water options are also available. Absolutely no outside food or beverages allowed. 

During warm-weather months, wine is only served outdoors. No inside access allowed except in inclement weather. Indoor space is currently limited to 22 guests, in the event of heavy rain or other inclement weather, guests will be prioritized for the limited indoor seating based on reservations. The outdoor counter is covered and awnings and umbrellas will be utilized if possible. High winds or heavy rains will not allow for umbrellas or awnings to be used. 

When serving outdoors, staff will gladly wear a mask upon a guest's. If serving indoors, staff will wear a mask. Per the Executive Order, guests are encouraged to wear a mask or have one available to use while placing orders and/or while unseated. BRW's county operational permit is under outdoor recreation and therefore staff are not required to wear a mask, but again, upon request we are happy to do so. 

Guests must comply with the CDC's recommended 6' social distancing from other parties. Signage will assist guests at the Outdoor Counter and tables are spaced accordingly, Guests are NOT allowed to move tables or chairs around. Guests are not allowed to bring their own chairs or lawn furniture. Blankets are the only exception if you wish to sit on the grass in an assigned area. Guests are also required to maintain 6' distancing when in line. No more than two guests may staff next to each other at the counter.

Pets are never allowed at Buffalo Rock Winery. The chickens and cat who reside on site and neighboring dogs appreciate your cooperation. Service animals are always welcome.

During this time of mandated restrictions and social distancing, please refrain from bringing guests under the age of 21 unless they can sit with your group at all times, for the duration of your visit.

A porta-pot will be available for guest use. Any guest requiring an ADA restroom will be permitted to utilize the indoor facilities.   

Please check-in at designed area of the Outdoor Counter to be seated. Wine lists will be available at the counter or at your table.

Contactless electronic payment is available via text or email upon request. If you do not have a device that supports electronic payment, credit cards can also be processed at the Outdoor Counter. Cash will also be accepted, please have smaller bills available to minimize the amount of change given.