South Dakota Wine Country South Dakota had its first vineyard in the 1800’s, but it wasn’t until the 1990’s that today’s wine industry began to take root. The state’s northern latitude in the middle of the country brings temperature extremes of very hot summers and very cold winters that are not particularly conducive to growing … Read more
Lifestyle, Diet, Wine and Health As a welcome break from reporting on the continuing chaos in Washington (though happily I do so from the Finger Lakes wine region), I am in Toledo, Spain attending a conference featuring 30 of the leading scientists from around the world—Europe, North America, South Africa, and Australia. As the event’s … Read more
Due to its hot and humid climate, South Carolina presents a challenging environment for growing many types of grapes, but is very hospitable to Muscadine varieties—as well as people who enjoy a good time just relaxin’. Deep Water Vineyard, the Charleston area’s only winery located on Wadmalaw Island, provides a good example of what can … Read more
There is little to report this week, as there is still no confirmed Speaker of the House, without which nothing can happen. In a recent vote of the Republican caucus, Majority Leader Steve Scalise (LA) barely bested Rep. Jim Jordan (OH), who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump. But it’s still not clear if … Read more
Rhode Island, known as the Ocean State, is not actually an island but might as well be in terms of the grape-friendly coastal climate and the Gulf Stream’s warming of Rhode Island Sound and the Sakonnet River. Because of this, tiny Rhode Island has the mildest climate in the east, with winter temperatures rarely plunging … Read more