What's Happening
The Waska Wine Club holds the key to the vault. Many of our most anticipated and limited-quantity wines are first allocated to club members—meaning sometimes, the public never even sees them. When you join the club, you guarantee you are always the first to taste, the first to own.
Forget what you know about white wine extremes. In Minnesota, the chill of the Upper Midwest creates a third style: the beautifully bright and zesty cold-climate wine. We’re diving into the difference between buttery oaked Chardonnay and the crisp, high-acid superstars like La Crescent and Brianna that thrive right here at Rolling Forks Vineyards. Discover why our region is rewriting the white wine rulebook!
For many, Chardonnay is the gold standard of white wines. But if you’re looking to expand your palate and explore new and exciting flavors, it might be time to cheat on Chardonnay. We’re not talking about a fleeting affair—we’re talking about a committed relationship with a vibrant and charismatic alternative: La Crescent.
When you’re jotting down notes, try to list the most obvious flavors first. And don’t just say “apple” – is it a “crisp green apple” or a “baked apple pie” kind of apple? Adding those little descriptive words makes a big difference! And remember, these notes are for you, so don’t be shy about writing something that might sound a little quirky – it’s all about your personal experience!
How can a single cold-climate grape offer such a delightful spectrum of flavors? The answer lies in the art of winemaking and the specific conditions of the northern vineyards where these resilient grapes flourish.
The story of La Crescent is one of purposeful creation, validating the dedication of the University of Minnesota’s horticultural program. Unlike its ancient European counterparts, La Crescent is a relatively recent arrival, born from a deliberate cross between the cold-hardy St. Pepin and the aromatic ES 6-8-25 in 1998. This wasn’t a happy accident of nature; it was a strategic pairing aimed at achieving a specific goal: a grape that could not only survive the rigors of a northern climate but also produce wines of genuine quality and character. The breeders weren’t simply seeking resilience; they were aiming for elegance.
As we prepare to bottle our new vintage, we invite you to explore Marquette like never before. Our vineyard is more than just a place; it’s a community that thrives on passion, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.
The secret behind our award-winning wines lies in our passion for winemaking. Our skilled team is committed to harnessing the unique characteristics of Minnesota’s cold-climate grapes, crafting wines that truly embody the spirit of the region. The combination of traditional techniques and innovative practices ensures that each wine we produce is of the highest quality, offering a distinct flavor profile that sets us apart from other vineyards.
Cihlar further elaborates, “While we understand the complexities of international trade, this moment presents a chance for Minnesota grape growers and wineries to shine. It encourages a focus on local agriculture and the dedication of our industry to producing high-quality wines that truly represent our state. We are excited about the prospect of more consumers embracing the ‘Minnesota terroir’ and discovering the passion we pour into every bottle.”
Sparkling wine is experiencing a renaissance, with more consumers embracing its versatility and celebratory nature. Traditionally reserved for special occasions, sparkling wines are now being enjoyed in everyday settings, from weekend brunches to evening gatherings.
