Self Guided Tour
In the Vineyards
From Prairie to Pasture to Vineyard
Established in 2011 by Melanie and Joe, Rolling Forks Vineyards is nestled in the rolling glacial hills overlooking Lake Minnewaska and situated on the 45th parallel. The vineyard benefits from geographical advantages akin to the renowned wine regions of Italy’s Piedmont region, France’s Rhône Valley and Bordeaux region, as well as Willamette Valley, Oregon. The Cilars chose this former prairie land turned dairy and cattle farm knowing the hilly pastures offer scenic beauty as well as practical benefits such as frost protection due to the lake effect. The unique climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, contributes to the development of intense flavors in the grapes, making the wine from our vineyards particularly special.
The grape selection at Rolling Forks Vineyards is both diverse and meticulously planned. In 2011, the vineyard saw the planting of 2 acres of Marquette on a south-facing hill, followed a year later by 2.5 acres of La Crescent at the top of the hill. Despite the challenges posed by drought and a polar vortex, which necessitated the replanting of 80% of these vines in 2014, the vineyard continued to thrive. In 2016, 2.5 acres of Petite Pearl were planted on a west-facing hill. More recently, in 2022, the vineyard has expanded to include an additional acre of Marquette and 3 acres of Crimson Pearl, strategically located near the winery.
Rolling Forks Vineyards also benefits from its association with Cihlar Vineyards, owned by Joe’s uncles. Cihlar Vineyards located 3 miles to the south began with a 2-acre planting in 2010, featuring varieties such as Frontenac Gris, Brianna, Prairie Star, and Louise Swenson. A further 2 acres of Frontenac Blanc were planted in 2012, followed by a 3-acre planting in 2013 of the same varieties. This collaboration enriches the grape variety at Rolling Forks Vineyards, enhancing the complexity and range of our wine offerings.
Thanks to this diverse planting of cold-hardy vines we have not imported any grapes or grape juice for our wines since 2020.
Establishing grapevines for wine-making is a meticulous process that typically takes 4-5 years. Initially, the vines are planted and trained in the first year to develop a robust root system. After a year of growth, the vines are pruned back to the ground, leaving only 2-4 buds for new growth, and any fruit produced is removed to focus on healthy plant development. During the third and fourth years, efforts are concentrated on establishing a strong trunk and consistent growth patterns. By the fourth and fifth years, grape production begins, with the fourth year often yielding a partial crop and the fifth year targeted for full production.
Pruning is an essential part of vine maintenance and is usually carried out every spring, around March or April, after some snow has melted. Joe, who prefers warmer weather, typically waits until temperatures rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. By May or June, the vines are tied to training wires. While spraying for fungus and plant health is part of the regimen, it is done on a controlled schedule and only when necessary. During dry times or droughts, spraying is avoided, and all labeling requirements are strictly followed.
Bird control is managed using a grape bubblegum-flavored spray that deters birds, along with a speaker system that emits distress and predatory bird calls to attract hawks and eagles. Vineyards are equipped with either below-ground or above-ground irrigation systems to manage dry periods and ensure consistent water supply throughout the growing season. Harvesting begins in mid-August and continues through the end of September, varying by grape variety. For example, Brianna grapes are typically harvested in mid-August, while Frontenac Gris and Blanc grapes are usually harvested at the end of September.
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