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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. We now have MAEAP verification and are adopting regenerative farming practices. Exceptional wine starts in the vineyard!

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 the benefits of sustainable, locally sourced food, as well as enjoy exceptional regional wines from our vineyard and classic favorites made with fruit sourced from local Michigan vineyards

Social Vines is proud to be MAEAP Certified (Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program). This certification recognizes our commitment to farming practices that protect Michigan’s land, air, and water resources for future generations.

Earning MAEAP verification means that our vineyard has gone through a comprehensive review of our farming operations — everything from how we manage soil and nutrients to how we protect water quality and promote biodiversity. It’s not just a one-time achievement; it reflects our ongoing dedication to sustainability, safety, and environmental stewardship.

For our guests, our MAEAP certification guarantees that every glass poured at Social Vines is rooted in responsible, eco-friendly practices. For our community, it’s a promise that we’re caring for the land we all share.

Learn about our grapes!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. It’s a white wine grape hybrid also developed specifically for cold climates. Off the vine, it tastes like a pina colada. It has the ability to produce crisp, aromatic white wines and is often used in blending.

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.