Cold Climate Grapes

What are cold climate grapes?

Cold climate grape varieties like La Crescent, Itasca, Brianna, Lacrosse, Marquette, Petite Pearl, and Sabrevois thrive in regions where winters are severe and traditional (European) wine grapes can’t survive.

Why give cold climate grape wines a try?

Because these grapes bring something unique and refreshing to the table. There’s a sense of discovery here. Cold climate wines are still a bit under the radar, so tasting them feels like uncovering a hidden gem. Whether you’re into dry reds, aromatic whites, or something a little off the beaten path, these wines offer a unique perspective and can provide new and enhanced experiences for wine lovers. If you haven’t explored this side of the wine world, you might be surprised at just how much you’ve been missing.

Cold climate grapes produce some truly distinctive, high-quality wines with remarkable complexity and depth of flavor. Wines from cold climate grapes often show off more vivid aromas and flavors than their traditional counterparts. Whites are usually vibrant, crisp, refreshing, and bursting with bright fruit and aromatics. Reds tend to offer bold fruit character with softer, smoother tannins, and a clean finish. Roses are fruit forward, crisp and delicious.

Some Facts about Cold-Climate Grapes:

Cold-climate grape varieties are produced through meticulous breeding programs that crossbreed traditional European (Vitus vinifera) grapes with North American grapes. Many of these North American varieties can withstand temperatures of minus 25 to 30 degrees (F) below zero - temperatures that would kill traditional (European) grapevines.
Cold-climate grape varieties don’t need to be grafted, thanks to their natural resistance to phylloxera - a pest that can devastate traditional European vines unless they’re grafted onto North American rootstock.
Cold-climate grape varieties are more hardy and resistant to fungal diseases, so they need less treatment to keep the vines healthy.
Since cold-climate grape varieties are hardy and more naturally resistant to disease, they can be grown more sustainably and with a smaller environmental footprint. Plus, by growing grapes locally, you cut down on the carbon emissions that come from shipping fruit long distances.