Vineyard
Our Vineyard: Set amidst rolling hills with over 900 feet in elevation variance, our vineyard thrives on a unique blend of Brookstone loam and Kidder sandy loam soils, with an ideal pH of 6.2 for grape cultivation.
Regular soil tests ensure our young vines remain healthy. We pride ourselves on being a fenced, irrigated, no-till vineyard, nestled among towering trees and abundant wildlife. Our commitment to sustainability is strong, with plans to achieve MEAEP certification and adopt regenerative farming practices. Remember, exceptional wine starts in the vineyard!
Spanning two acres, our vineyard features robust cold-hardy grape varieties from the University of Minnesota, including Frontenac, Frontenac Blanc, Marquette, Petite Pearl, Crimson Pearl, and Itasca. We also cultivate Elmer Swenson varieties like Louise Swenson and Prairie Star.
Choosing Cold Hardy Varieties: As first-generation farmers, our focus is on a sustainable, resilient crop. In our quest for a unique niche in the wine industry, we discovered the suitability of cold climate grape varieties for our region. These varieties endure extreme temperatures down to -35°F and resist diseases better than many others, promising delicious wines. Soon, you’ll savor not only the benefits of sustainable, locally-sourced food but also taste the exceptional, regional wines from our vineyard, along with classic favorites.
Our Grapes
Marquette
Marquette is a red grape variety that produces medium-bodied, dry, red wine and is suitable for extended maturation in oak barrels. Over time, it has become one of the most popular grapes adapted to cold climates.
Itasca
Itasca is named after Lake Itasca, the source lake for the Mississippi River. This white wine grape variety stands out for its extreme cold hardiness, high quality fruit chemistry and low acidity, and disease resistance.
Petite Pearl
Petite Pearl is a cold-hardy hybrid. Since its release in 2010, it has been widely adopted by Minnesota growers, who appreciate its higher tannins for a fully hardy grape and a long finish.
Frontenac Blanc
Frontenac blanc is a genetic variant of Frontenac that became available in 2012. It produces wines with aromas of tropical fruit like pineapple, citrus, and sometimes floral notes. It’s often used to make dry or semi-dry wines, and can also be used in blends or sparklings.
Prarie Star
Prairie Star is one of my favorite grapes to grow with a very upright growing behavior, and a beautiful shimmery young leaf pattern. Its a white wine grape hybrid also developed specifically for cold climates. Off the vine, it takes like a pina colada. It’s has the ability to produce crisp, aromatic white wines and often used in blending.
Frontenac Noir
Frontenac Noir is a red wine grape hybrid prized for its exceptional cold hardiness. It’s a versatile grape, producing wines ranging from light-bodied and fruity to richer, more complex reds with notes of cherry, plum, and spice. It’s also used to make rosé and port-style wines.