Exploring the Local Businesses of Carlsville

Known as one of Wisconsin’s most iconic destinations, Door County is always well worth a visit, especially the community of Carlsville. Situated between Egg Harbor and Sturgeon Bay, it’s a community full of charm and carried by local businesses. Join us as we visit Door County Candle Company, Door County Coffee, Door Peninsula Winery, and Door County Distillery–the 4 four pillars of the Carlsville community.

Door County Candle Company

We’re off to a bright and beaming start at Door County Candle Company, which was recently purchased by Christiana–an Egg Harbor native seeking to shine a light of hope on the world. In 2021, she purchased the company with little-to-no candle-making experience. 

With the combination of hard work and dedication, she quickly learned the ropes and has created quite a successful and impactful business now producing over 50 custom-made fragrances and hand-pouring every candle with love. After mastering the craft, Christiana shared the behind-the-scenes candle-making process.

Pushing past her successes and progressing as a new owner, Christiana wanted to do more and used this platform for philanthropy. Using her candles for change, she created the first of many philanthropic candles to come–the Ukraine candle supporting relief efforts overseas. From supporting Ukraine to the American Red Cross after Hurricane Ian, 100% of profits from special Support a Cause candles have gone to these astounding non-profit organizations. Christiana’s company goes beyond just candles–it symbolizes hope in every wick.

Door County Coffee

Let’s take it up a few notches with a quick caffeine stop at Door County Coffee. Before even walking in the doors, you’ll smell the amazing aromas lingering throughout Carlsville. From morning brews and mouth-watering meals to an expansive warehouse and gift shop, it’s a one-stop shop at this local hub!

Vicki, owner of Door County Coffee, is all about the people–serving the best-of-the-best beans. Back in the 40,000-square-foot warehouse is really where the magic happens, roasting small batches of top-grade beans. In total, there’s an impressive 7,000 pounds of coffee beans roasted a day! 

This charming shop and Cafe is the perfect place to sip your favorite coffee concoction and enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch.  When you’re done, head into the gift shop! There’s a little taste of everything including kitchen goods, sunglasses, comfy sweaters, and of course, coffee, lots and lots of coffee.  

Door Peninsula Winery

Onto Door Peninsula Winery, keeping the beverage train chugging through Carlsville! Dating back to 1868, this building was once the Carlsville School House through the year 1964. In 1974, it was turned into Door Peninsula Winery.

In the cool and collection-filled basement of this historic building, you’ll find remnants of the past surrounded by thick stone walls. Dig up artifacts and archives from when the school house operated and the 70’s winery was in full force, hand-corking each and every bottle.

Today, Door Peninsula Winery has grown into quite a company. Bottling roughly 6-7,000 bottles of wine a day and making over 70 varieties, they’ve certainly got Carlsville covered with plenty to go around. In total, they make around 180,000 gallons of wine and cider a year that locals and visitors alike can enjoy in any season.

Door County Distillery

You won’t have to go far to visit the fourth corner of Carlsville’s community. In the same building as Door Peninsula Winery, you’ll find Door County Distillery, which is home to not only spectacular spirits, but also small-town comradery. 

Opened in 2011, the distillery produces a plethora of whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and brandy. Take a tour and dive into the history of the building, production process, and taste the final product. While you’re there, be sure to make a pit stop at the food and fudge bar. It’s truly irresistible with an assortment of flavors combined with creamy, chocolatey goodness.

Settle in at The Barrel Lounge that gets its name for a reason. It looks just as it sounds–like a barrel! This distinct design only adds to the charm of Carlsville and is where much of the community gathers together.

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Carlsville–the historic and hospitable heart of Door County–awaits your visit! Come and experience the charming community knit together by the four cornering businesses. Stop by Door County Candle Company, Door County Coffee, Door Peninsula Winery, and Door County Distillery and feel the sense of community in this iconic destination.

Get an inside peek of Carlsville by watching recent Discover Wisconsin episode, ‘A Road Trip to Carlsville’ below:

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Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.