Self Guided Tour
Vineyard: Crimson Pearl
This 4 acre vineyard along the winery driveway is home to 3 acres of Crimson Pearl and 1 Acre of Marquette grape vines planted in 2022.
For the Love of Family, Farming, and Wine
Nestled in the heart of Glenwood, Minnesota, Rolling Forks Vineyards stands as a testament to the enduring power of family, farming, and a shared passion for winemaking. Owners Joe and Melanie Cihlar have transformed their love for agriculture and viticulture into a thriving vineyard that captures the essence of community and the rich terroir of the rolling glacial hills.
This vineyard planted in 2022 is home to the youngest vines on the property. Crimson Pearl grapes are a crossing made in 1996 and released in 2009. This cultivar is the sister of Petite Pearl which is also found on our estate. The juice tends to be high in tannins compared to other interspecific grapes such as Marquette, with a color intensity slightly lower than Petite Pearl and a low acidity. We chose this variety for its 1) fruity aroma dominated by fresh or dried cherry, with secondary notes of black pepper, almond, mint, anise, blackberry, and raspberry, depending on yeast selection, 2) less tannin than Petite Pearl, but soft and dense on the palate and in the finish and 3) its excellent balance of acid, tannin and alcohol. It is an excellent choice for approachable, fruity dry red wines and dry rose wine. We are excited to bring our first commercial harvest into the winery for production in 2024.
Joe and Melanie's journey into winemaking began with a deep-rooted connection to the land. With a background in farming, Joe brought a wealth of knowledge about soil, climate, and crop management to the venture. Melanie, with her keen business skills and dedication to family, helped shape the vineyard's vision and operations. Together, they embarked on an ambitious project to cultivate cold-hardy grape varieties that could withstand Minnesota's harsh winters. Their efforts have paid off, as Rolling Forks Vineyards now produces a diverse range of wines that reflect the unique character of the region.
The Cihlar family's commitment to sustainability and community involvement is evident in every aspect of their vineyard. From hosting local events and wine tastings to collaborating with nearby farmers and artisans, Joe and Melanie have created a welcoming space that celebrates the symbiotic relationship between agriculture and viticulture. Their wines, crafted with care and precision, have garnered accolades for their quality and distinctiveness, making Rolling Forks Vineyards a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. For Joe and Melanie, the vineyard is more than a business; it's a labor of love that brings people together and honors the traditions of family and farming.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or someone just beginning to explore the world of wine, our doors are always open. Together, let’s uncork the wine lifestyle for everyone to enjoy. Let us sip, relax and enjoy!
Find Our Wines
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.