NEW! Latvian Grapes into Wine
In the years since 1998 when we made our first trip to the Baltics, Andris Dishlers has worked tirelessly to organize grapegrowers and winemakers in Latvia. His efforts have created opportunities for Latvians to meet and evaluate their wines. Through these activities, a great deal is being learned about Baltic grape varieties, how to grow them to enhance wine quality, and how to process them into wine. No small achievement in this land with only half the heat units of St. Paul.
This is Andris’ report to us on the 2002 vintage.
Prairie Star Update
Many Prairie Star vines have been planted since we first named and recommended the variety in 2000. Our recommendation, though optimistic, contained the caution that there was still a lot to learn about the vine and the wine it could make. The following is a summary of what we have learned since then.
Grapegrowing Comes to North Dakota
For those who are not familiar with North Dakota, all you need to know is that it is colder than Minnesota. That about says it all. Grapes there? Why sure. North Dakota State University has a new grant under the state’s High Value Crops program to conduct grape field trials at three locations around the state. Find out more about this research activity and other North Dakota grape and winery developments.
Swenson Vineyard Preservation Project
Grape breeder, Elmer Swenson turns 90 years old this December. His list of accomplishments as a grape breeder for 50 years are well-known: Swenson Red, Edelweiss, St. Croix, Kay Gray, St. Pepin, LaCrosse, Esprit, Summersweet, Sabrevois, Louise, Prairie Star, Brianna, Somerset Seedless, Petit Jewel Seedless, Trollhaugen Seedless. His grape varieties can be found growing on three continents-North America, Europe, and Asia. At his advanced age, Elmer is no longer able to care for his vineyard. Yet much grape material in his vineyard remains to be evaluated. During the 2003 season, an effort was launched to preserve his legacy for the long term.
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