South Dakota is one of the youngest wine states, officially starting in 1996 when Valiant Vineyards was opened. Given its cold winter climate, the state specializes in cold-hardy Minnesota grape varieties as well as other fruits.
Belle Joli’ Winery, whose name was inspired by the beauty of the land, is the passion of Matthew and Choi Jackson, who met at CSU Fresno when he was studying enology and she focused on finance, later also attaining status as a Certified Sommelier. They planted their first vines in 2000 in the rich Black Hills soil, and pride themselves on producing sparkling wines made in the traditional method, as well as a selection of table wines made from locally grown “Minnesota” varieties like Frontenac, Marquette, and Frontenac Gris, as well as other varieties. Visitors may choose between the Sparkling House Sturgis, and a Tasting Room in Deadwood.
Great Grapes: Frontenac Gris
This unusual light red or grey-skinned relative of the red Frontenac variety is equally cold-hardy, and produces a medium sweet white wine or rose.