So You Want to Grow Grapes in Minnesota?

So you want to grow grapes to eat or to make into wine right here in Minnesota? Get an introduction to the process from the University of Minnesota's Horticultural Resource Center this weekend.

Growing Grapes in Minnesota
Saturday, March 2, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
$40 for ARBORETUM MEMBERS -  / $55 non-members

All Levels, Lecture / Demo, Limit 40, Horticulture Research Center (HRC)

Welcome to the vineyard! Join vineyard keepers John and Jenny Thull at the University of Minnesota's Horticulture Research Center to delve into the winding journey of cold climate hardy grapes. There are grapes for eating and grapes for making wine, and you'll discover which are best for your garden and taste. Learn which cultivars to grow, how to grow them, what to do about diseases and pests, and more. You'll find out about the University's breeding projects, and head out into the vineyard to learn about pruning techniques. Take home your own cutting of Frontenac or Edelweiss grape vine! Meet at the Horticulture Research Center (near the Apple House) 1 mile west of the Arboretum entrance.

See more at: http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/gardening.aspx#sthash.jPZoRgPS.dpuf

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER:  http://www.mnarbonline.com/Growing-Grapes-in-Minnesota-150-03-02-13-P1053C122.aspx

DIRECTIONS to the HRC:  The HRC is a little over a mile further west of the Arboretum, at the corner of Highway 5 and Rolling Acres Rd.

Can't make the seminar? You can buy the book Growing Grapes in Minnesota or join the Minnesota Grape Growers Association.

Cheers!
--Kristo

What's a Wine Blogger To Do?

Last Saturday I wrapped up my service on the board of directors of the Minnesota Grape Growers Association. I joined the board two years ago to serve its members and help spread the word about a unique state industry that was growing right under my nose. Six months prior I didn't even know the Minnesota wine industry even existed, let alone that Minnesota is a national leader in cold climate viticulture! That's when I started this blog. It began as a log of my discoveries and a way to help spread the good word about Minnesota wines.

While I was involved with the MGGA, ironically, I didn't have the capacity to do much with this blog. But now, with a new perspective, more knowledge and new industry contacts and friends, (and more capacity in my life) I'm wondering: what's a cold climate wine blogger to do now?

And so I'm asking:

• What you want to know about the Minnesota grape and wine industry?
• What information would be helpful to you before purchasing Minnesota wine?
• What sources do you use now to learn more about Minnesota wine?
• What's your opinion of Minnesota wine?
• When was the last time you tried Minnesota wine?

Let me know your thoughts! I hope to see you soon in a local tasting room! --Kristo