September is harvest time for our local grape-growers and it’s an excellent month to head out to the vineyard. You might catch a glimpse of the harvest in progress, and some wineries even organize days for the public to help out. It’s hard work but a satisfying experience—being out amongst the vines on a breezy … [ Read more]
Six local standouts from the 2018 International Cold Climate Wine Competition
The International Cold Climate Wine Competition yesterday celebrated its 10th year of honoring the finest examples of cold-climate wine in North America. The judging was held at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and The Growler was among 24 judges charging through hundreds of wines made with grapes that can withstand our extreme climate, several varieties of which … [ Read more]
Carlos Creek Winery’s owners are starting a Viking-themed brewery in Alexandria
Carlos Creek Winery in Alexandria, Minnesota, has been a destination for wine lovers in the state since 1999. The winery has grown a lot since opening, adding a new production building in 2015, cider in 2016, and, come summer 2019, craft beer under the brand 22 Northmen Brewing. “Many of us at the winery are as … [ Read more]
Drink these Minnesota-made 2016 gold medal wines
The Growler was on hand to help judge the 2016 International Cold Climate Wine Competition. We’ve found that the quality of cold-hardy wines has grown exponentially in the last five or six years. Local wineries are accruing a much better grasp on growing and bottling these new wine grape varieties that are suited to the upper Midwest. Our … [ Read more]