Self Guided Tour
On the Patio
Sip, Relax and Enjoy the Patio!
Take pause in your tour to enjoy a glass of wine and learn about our cold-climate grape varieties.
Our wines, crafted from unique grape varieties are carving out a distinctive niche in the world of viticulture. These grapes thrive in harsher, colder environments where traditional grape varieties would falter, bringing an innovative twist to the global wine industry. What sets these cold climate varieties apart is not just their resilience but also the distinctive flavors and aromas they impart to the wines they produce.
La Crescent (hilltop), Petite Pearl (west hillside), and Marquette (south hillside) grapes are the product of meticulous breeding programs designed to combine the hardiness necessary to withstand cold winters with the ability to produce high-quality, flavorful wines. La Crescent, with its aromatic profile reminiscent of apricot, citrus, and tropical fruits, offers a vibrant acidity that can be likened to some of the finest German white wines. Marquette and Petite Pearl, on the other hand, are red wine grapes that bring robust profiles and have the ability to produce complex, full-bodied wines. This has earned a growing interest among winemakers and wine enthusiasts from near and far.
Beyond the flavor profiles, what truly sets these cold climate grapes apart is their contribution to sustainable viticulture in regions previously considered unsuitable for traditional wine making. By expanding the geographical diversity of wine production, these grapes lessen the reliance on the few select regions that dominate the wine industry. This not only helps in reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance wine transport but also supports the growth of local economies.
You might yet wonder: we don’t have a pineapple industry here in MN, or banana, so why are some people trying to have a wine industry here? The answer lies in the dedication to agriculture and the innovative spirit of local farmers and entrepreneurs. While Minnesota may not have the tropical climate suited for growing pineapples or bananas, it does have a unique environment that can support certain types of grapevines. Cold-hardy grape varieties, specifically bred to withstand the harsh winters and shorter growing seasons, have been developed to thrive in Minnesota's climate. Minnesota has been home to native wild grapes and they were enjoyed by the Dakota and Ojibwa indigenous tribes. Grapes were used in pemmican- a traditional food made with dried meat, fat, and fruit. Today's varieties were developed by breeding with our native species and have made it possible for local vineyards to produce high-quality wines that reflect the distinct character of the region.
Beyond the technical feasibility, there is also a cultural and economic drive behind the burgeoning wine industry in Minnesota. The local food movement and a growing interest in agritourism have encouraged Minnesotans to explore and invest in local products. Establishing a wine industry not only provides an opportunity for farmers to diversify their crops and income but also boosts the local economy by attracting tourists and creating jobs. Wineries often become destinations for wine enthusiasts, offering tastings, tours, and events that celebrate the local heritage and the craft of winemaking.
Furthermore, the wine industry in Minnesota is fueled by a community of passionate winemakers and consumers who are eager to support and enjoy locally produced wines. This sense of community and pride in local products fosters a supportive environment for the wine industry to flourish. As more people discover and appreciate the unique flavors and qualities of Minnesota wines, the industry continues to grow, proving that with innovation and determination, even a state without a pineapple or banana industry can cultivate a thriving wine culture.
The introduction of cold climate grape varieties represents a broader shift towards sustainability, resilience, and innovation in the industry. These grapes are setting new standards for what can be achieved in regions with challenging climates, offering a palette of flavors and aromas that challenge the dominance of traditional varietals and enrich the global wine landscape.
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Retail Locations
We have partnered with many retailers to make our wines accessible when a visit to our tasting room isn’t an option. Find one near you.