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Concords are a deep mystical blue color when ripe, softened by a dusty coat of naturally occurring yeasts. This native from the labrusca species was nurtured in the 1840s by Ephraim Wales Bull. From thousands of seed plantings, he fine-tuned the taste of what we now know as Concord. This taste has become the base of what Americans recognize as "grape" flavor. Concord is named after the town in Massachusetts where Bull's original home and vineyard stands today. Our initial planting in 2004 was Concord and these vigorous vines promise many years of service.

From the aestivalis species this native is known either as Cynthiana or Norton, perhaps depending on whether you prefer its feminine or masculine qualities. Historically attributed to Dr. Daniel Norton of Richmond Virginia, this cultivar has been commercially available since 1830 but cited in journals as early as 1770. Very naturally resistant to disease, this vine's boldness is reflected in the grape's rich flavors and deep ruby color. The next road east of the winery happens to be named Cyntheanne so we hope our 2008 plantings sense some kinship in their new home.

This golden grape is a charmer with its pronounced apricot flavor and snappy acidity. La Crescent vines make up our largest block of vines with plantings in 2005 and 2006. It is a very recently developed hybrid (1988) from the University of Minnesota and features a heritage of native riparia and German Muscat

Slow starting but hard working is the projection for this new variety. With its heavy body and neutral flavor, Prairie Star will be an excellent addition to any fruit wine formula. In some years, it can develop a floral character that begs to stand on its own varietal virtues. Planted in 2008, we hope to see production from these vines in 2012.

This adherent-skin grape was named by Wisconsin viticulturist Elmer Swenson, who claims his 1970 hybrid is as good as a California table grape in taste and texture. This technically red grape can vary in color from green to blue depending on temperatures during ripening. Swenson Red with its vinifera heritage is versatile as both a crunchy table grape and a balanced juice for winemaking. These vines are planted close to the winery in 2008 to show off their bright foliage.