Marengo, Amana winemaker named Iowa Winemaker of the Year

Zach Bott, winemaker in Marengo and Amana, was named 2024 Winemaker of the Year by the Iowa Wine Growers Association.

Bott, a winemaker at Fireside Winery in Marengo and Ackerman Winery in Amana, was honored with the award at the 2024 Iowa Wine Awards Banquet earlier this month, along with four other recipients.

Bott is the creator of Fireside Winery — one of Iowa’s most popular wineries — and is known for a diverse range at both of his wineries, primarily using northern climate grapes grown on their properties. His offerings range from dry wines grown using local varietals to sweet fruit wines Ackerman is known for.

“Year after year, he is able to strive and grow the name of Iowa wine,” the Iowa Wine Growers Association said in a news release. “His wines have garnered numerous awards, but more significantly, they have immense popularity with wine lovers, propelling Fireside to become one of the most popular wineries in the state.”

Most of the association’s awards are nominated and voted on by peers.

“We are thrilled to recognize each one of these very deserving industry members, and we are proud of their hard work and dedication to the Iowa wine industry,” said Christie Jensen, executive director of the Iowa Wine Growers Association.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.