Distributor Central

Learn the benefits of carrying Ackerman wines for your business and how to get started.

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About Us

Ackerman Winery is proud to have the distinct honor of being the oldest operating winery in the state of Iowa. It all started in the basement of the South Amana home of Harry and Louisa Ackerman in 1956. They produced one hundred gallons each of Concord Grape and Rhubarb.

In 1974, their son Les Ackerman, along with his wife Linda, took over operations and carried on the wine-making tradition for over 40 years – producing 15,000+ gallons of wine annually and expanding the wine list from two to over twenty different styles of wine.

Our Story

How To Get Started

We realize how important it is for customers to experience wines first-hand before making a purchase. That is why we offer sampling opportunities for our retailers. Contact your wholesale representative to set up a tasting for your next special event.

Our friendly staff will be onsite to sample wines and answer questions for your guests. We pride ourselves on not only our quality wines but also the service that goes with delivery and caring for our customers.

Our staff will work with you to establish a service plan that keeps the wines fresh and up to date.

Wholesale Pricing

We offer our wholesale clients 20% off our retail prices. Wholesalers who purchase five or 10 cases per order are eligible for greater discounts.

Download Pricing Scale

Testimonials

Award-Winning Wines

Every year, our wines from Ackerman are entered into wine competitions around the nation. We are thrilled to have our wines awarded by wine professionals in well known wine regions such as California and New York.

Blackberry

2019 Florida State Fair

  • Gold

2018 Florida State Fair

  • Gold

2018 Finger Lakes International

  • Gold

2018 Iowa State Fair

  • Silver

2018 Pacific Rim International

  • Bronze

Blueberry

2019 Indy International Wine Competition

  • Bronze

Catawaba

2018 Finger Lakes International

  • Bronze

Cherry

2019 Mid-American Wine Competition

  • Silver

2019 Pacific Rim International

  • Bronze

2018 Los Angeles International

  • Best of Class
  • Gold
  • Bronze – Label Winner

2018 Finger Lakes International

  • Silver

Wine Comparisons

License Requirements

Retailers must have an active alcohol license from the State of Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division (ABD) to sell Iowa wine. If your store does not currently have a license and would like to sell Iowa wines, please contact the Iowa ABD to inquire about the license that is right for your establishment.

For more information, please visit the ABD website or call 866-IOWA-ABD (469-2223).

Selling tips

Sample often! Customers are more likely to purchase wine they have tasted and enjoyed. Ask your wholesale representative for details on our sample program and ambassador tasting events.

Host a pairing event. Pair Ackerman wines with foods or activities to encourage customers to sample the wine. Distributors in the past have had success with:

Transparent pricing and descriptions. Display pricing and wine descriptions in a highly visible place so customers can easily find the information.

Contact Your Wholesale Representative

Have questions? Get in touch with your rep. We are here to make your selling experience simple and fun.

Brian-Culp_Distributor

Eastern Iowa
Brian Cub

brian@firesidewinery.com

319-350-8590

Western Iowa
Susan Brenneman

susan@firesidewinery.com

319-930-7014