April 2, 2025

Support Minnesota Wines at Your Favorite Wine Bars

We're thrilled to see the growing trend of wine bars popping up across Minnesota, as highlighted in Jason DeRusha's recent article, "Wine Bars Are on the Rise" in Minnesota Monthly. These hip and relaxed establishments are a fantastic addition to our state's culinary scene, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore and appreciate the world of wine.

However, as a winery dedicated to producing exceptional wines from Minnesota-grown, cold-climate grapes, we've noticed a gap. While these wine bars showcase a diverse selection of wines, many often overlook the unique and delicious offerings produced right here in our own backyard.

Red, White and Rosé wines by Rolling Forks Vineyards, Glenwood, Minnesota

Minnesota's cold-climate grapes, like Marquette, Crimson Pearl, and La Crescent, yield wines with distinct characteristics and flavors that reflect our region's terroir. These varietals may not be as widely recognized as traditional grapes like Chardonnay or Merlot, but they are gaining popularity and winning double gold medals at prestigious wine competitions around the world. They deserve a place on wine lists across the state.

We understand that introducing unfamiliar varietals can be challenging. Consumers may be hesitant to try something new, and industry experts might not be as familiar with these unique wines. However, we believe that education and exploration are key to expanding the appreciation for Minnesota wines.

That's why we're encouraging all wine enthusiasts to request their favorite Minnesota wines the next time they visit one of these fantastic wine bars. Let's work together to showcase the quality and diversity of our local wine industry.

We look forward to seeing the knowledge of our region's wines grow within these fine establishments. By supporting Minnesota wineries, we can create a more vibrant and sustainable wine community for everyone to enjoy.

Cheers to exploring the unique flavors of Minnesota wines!

Excerpt from "Wine Bars Are on the Rise" by Jason DeRusha:

"Ignore the headlines and trend pieces that say Americans aren’t drinking wine anymore. Smart entrepreneurs are ignoring them too, based on an explosion of new places to swirl, sniff, and sip in Minnesota. It’s a trend that is extending well beyond the immediate metro and into smaller towns all over the state. Wine bars have struggled to catch on in our area, maybe because so many of us gravitate toward big brands and old favorites. But a new spirit of exploration coupled with a desire to find chill places with good vibes make wine bars feel like a win."

https://www.minnesotamonthly.com/general/wine-bars-are-on-the-rise/