Here’s Why Wisconsin Deserves A Spot On Your Wine-Lover’s Wishlist

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There are some great spots for wine here in the US. Whether you visit one of the iconic Oregon wineries, or head to California to soak up some sun-kissed red, you really will find yourself spoilt for choice. 

With so many options at your disposal, there may also be some US states you simply wouldn’t consider visiting as a wine-lover. And, the chances are Wisconsin is probably high on that list. 

After all, this Northern State is hardly famed for its wine. In fact, in the past, famously acidic Wisconsin wines have been scorned in the wine world. But, a quick Google search is all it takes to show that things are changing. 

Now, headlines are cropping up all over the shop about how Wisconsin wine is the next big thing. As unexpected as that might be, wine lovers may, therefore, find that a trip to Wisconsin and its wineries is more than worthwhile for getting ahead of this trend. 

But, you don’t need to take our word for it. Let’s delve into what exactly is going on with Wisconsin and its standing as one of our new favorite wine states. 

 

 

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Why Does Wisconsin Wine Have a Bad Reputation?

Wine in Wisconsin is nothing new. Winemakers have been operating here since as far back as the 1840s. And, there have been vineyards in the region for just as long. Yet, few people realize that Wisconsin wine even exists. And, those who do will rarely reach for a bottle of an evening. Even within the state, Wisconsin wine simply hasn’t been all that popular throughout history. 

In truth, there are some pretty solid reasons for this general dislike, and they predominantly have to do with taste. Top complaints that you may have heard about Wisconsin wine include – 

• • Acidic taste: The traditionally acidic taste of Wisconsin wines is perhaps their hardest selling point. This is because Wisconsin wines don’t use the traditional ‘vinifera’ grape varieties that we often associate with options like cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. Instead, Wisconsin wine uses ‘hybrid’ grape varieties such as Edelweiss and St. Croix that thrive in colder climates. And, they can pack a pretty acidic punch and distinctive flavor. 

• • A lack of iconic brands: In some respect, Wisconsin wine has also never had a great reputation because there’s never been an iconic Wisconsin wine brand that’s well-known country-wide. For the most part, people simply haven’t considered picking a Wisconsin blend because they haven’t known one to reach for. 

• • Out-of-state additions: Often, Wisconsin wineries will produce wine using grapes shipped in from other states like California. This means that, often, Wisconsin wine itself can struggle to gain a great reputation on its own two legs. 

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How The Wisconsin Climate Is Changing The Tides

The taste and yield of vineyard grapes have always been incredibly dependent on the weather. Unfortunately, climate change has been taking its toll on vineries in more famed hot regions like California, affecting everything from taste to production.

Wisconsin, however, is famed for below-zero wind chills and is even home to winter wonders like the Lake Superior ice caves. That makes for some hardy grape varieties in the first place. And, those varieties are far better able to withstand whatever challenges climate change throws at them. 

Admittedly, this need for weather-resistant hardiness is what gives Wisconsin grapes that famed acidic taste. But, as more Wisconsin winemakers overcome this by sweetening their wines with other state-grown fruits, it seems a small price to pay for more reliable yields and wine production that’s going from strength to strength when other areas are at risk of dwindling. 

How to Enjoy Wisconsin Wines

Even if you’re considering a wine-lovers trip to Wisconsin after what we’ve said, you may be wondering one pressing question – how can you best enjoy Wisconsin wine? Perhaps you’ve tried one before and weren’t keen on that distinctive Wisconsin flavor. Or, maybe you’re simply not typically a fan of acidic wines. 

Just a few tips that might help you to start enjoying Wisconsin wines at last include – 

1. 1. Seek sweetened varieties: Wisconsin wine is acidic, but many wineries are now sweetening their offerings using local fruits. Many Wisconsin wineries also now practice ‘sur lie aging’, where matured wine is left to continue aging on yeast cells to create more sugars. While these blends may still be slightly acidic, they can be a great way to adjust to how Wisconsin wine tastes. 

1. 1. Try ice wine: If you really can’t stand the idea of an acidic blend, why not try some Wisconsin ice wine? Requiring temperatures that freeze the water but not the sugar inside grapes, ice wine is incredibly sweet. Genuine ice wine is also quite rare, with production typically limited to states like Wisconsin and Michigan. By seeking Wisconsin ice wines, you can enjoy what the state has to offer without the risk of tartness. 

1. 1. Consider the best pairings: Acidic Wisconsin wines can work wonderfully as a contrast to fatty or rich creamy dishes, meaning that the right pairings might help you enjoy these tart wines more than you might expect. 

1. 1. Know your grapes: Wisconsin might not offer the vinifera grapes you know and recognize, but there are plenty of hybrid varieties available, meaning there’s likely a comparison grape for wines you know. For instance, if you enjoy chardonnay, something like a wine made with St. Pepin might be a better replacement than you’d imagine. 

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The Best Wisconsin Wineries

There are over 120 wineries and growing in Wisconsin. So, once you’ve decided to give Wisconsin wine-tasting a go, you’ll also need to plan where you intend to visit on your trip. Some top wineries currently contributing to the changing opinions about Wisconsin wine include – 

1. 1. Château St Croix: Wisconsin might not hold the European grape varieties you’d expect from a traditional French winery, but it does have Chateau St Croix, a picturesque vineyard that looks like it’s plucked straight out of Bordeaux. Famed for its award-winning La Crescent Wisconsin white wine, Château St Croix includes a French-style country house, stables, and formal gardens. 70% of the red, white, and rose wines that are made here use local grapes, and some of the wines you’ll find during a visit have been aged for up to ten years to ensure sweetness and a Wisconsin taste like no other. 

1. 1. Baraboo Bluff Winery: Situated on the northwest range of the Baraboo Bluffs, Baraboo Bluff Winery offers everything you could hope for from a visit to the vineyard. We’re talking panoramic views, delicious wines, and stunning grounds where you can enjoy a wine-fuelled picnic if you fancy. With vineyards that date back as far as the 1800s, the winery boasts the best ‘cold-hardy’ flavors with its grapes, including crowd-favorites like peach, raspberry, and tropical blends. Daily wine tastings are available all year, with a tasting menu that includes samples of the winery’s best-selling seven wines. 

1. 1. Door Peninsula Winery: Door Peninsula Winery was one of the first post-prohibition wineries in the state, and it remains a state-wide favorite. The winery is best known for producing over 60 varieties of everything from fruit-fusion wines to more traditional options, as well as cider, port, and vodka depending on your taste. Over the years, Door Peninsula Winery has won over two hundred awards for its wines and has now expanded to include a complete on-site distillery, as well as two tasting bars where visitors can sample over 60 different wines and ciders. 

1. 1. River Bend Vineyard: River Bend Vineyard is a family-run business that puts the heart into Wisconsin wine. Originally started by a pair of local wine lovers who made wine purely for themselves, River Bend’s six-acre Vineyard has gone from strength to strength since its days of amateur competitions. Now, the commercial vineyard and distillery produce award-winning wines and spirits using local grapes such as Frontenac Gris. You can enjoy River Bend wine on-site, as well as during attendance at a range of events which include local singers and food. River Bend Vineyard is also available for private events after hours. 

5. 5. Rock N Wool Winery: So-called because of its history of sheep and its iconic rocky ground, Rock N Wool Winery is a 40-acre winery that offers tastings, wedding hire, and a unique Wisconsin experience. With 4 bars and 9 separate seating areas, as well as a tasting room located in an old barn, Rock N Wool Winery offers something for everyone and is sure to play host to a great day out. 

It’s Worth Giving Wisconsin Wine a Chance

Wisconsin wine might not be your go-to wine of choice, but it is becoming an increasingly hot contender in the wine world. A trip to one of Wisconsin’s great wineries could be the ideal way to see what all the fuss is about. From acidic tart wines to fruit-sweetened fusions, the state certainly has a lot to offer if you know where to look for it. And, with over 120 wineries on offer, you’d be surprised just how many places there are to look when you book your Wisconsin trip!