The Big Sky Country of Montana comes with a cold climate that can be challenging for growing many types of grapes, but the cold-hardy Minnesota varieties can withstand the winter temperatures. Other fruits are also used to make local wines.
The Montana Grape and Winery Association promotes the industry in various ways. Tongue River Winery in Miles City, with some three acres of grapes producing about 1,000 cases each year, is fiercely proud of its state: “If it won’t grow here, we won’t ferment it,”, adding that they “use no fruit from California, Australia, or Mars” in producing their “passion in a bottle”.
Great Grapes: LaCrescent
The winter-hardy LaCrescent vine, which can survive temperatures to -36F, is a cross between St. Pepin and Swenson 6-8-25. It produces a Germanic-style wine reminiscent of Vignoles or Riesling. It does best as a sweeter wine, reflecting the high Brix levels the grapes reach, and is also commonly used for blending.
