Cold Hardy Wine Grapes
Sure, Vermont might not be the first place you'd associate with winemaking, but thanks to the groundbreaking work of horticulturist Elmer Swenson, a true trailblazer in grape breeding, things have taken a remarkable turn. His introduction of several new cultivars, alongside scientists at the University of Minnesota, has helped transformed the grape game, especially in regions dealing with chilly, short growing seasons.
Since our first planting in 1998, we’ve learned how to manage hybrid grapes through site selection, careful vineyard management, and low intervention winemaking to bring out their absolute best qualities, producing complex and delicious wines.
What we Grow
Whites
La Crescent
Louise Swenson
Riesling
Vidal Blanc
Prairie Star
L’Acadia Blanc
Reds
Marquette
Petite Pearl
St. Croix
Where we Grow
McCabe's Brook Vineyard
Meach Cove Vineyard
Mt. Philo Vineyard
Red Grapes
Marquette
The Marquette grape is a cold-hardy hybrid variety that has gained popularity in the state of Vermont for its ability to thrive in our region's challenging climate. Developed by the University of Minnesota, this grape is well-suited for the shorter growing season and colder temperatures of Vermont.
We’ve found that the Marquette grape produces a versatile and complex wine with a balance of acidity and fruitiness. The resulting wine often showcases characteristic notes of cherry, black currant, and black pepper, making it a fine choice for lovers of medium-bodied red wines.