South Dakota wine

South Dakota Wine refers to wine made from grapes grown in the U.S. state of South Dakota. The state's wine industry is relatively small, with only a handful of wineries currently in operation. Despite its small size, the South Dakota wine industry has garnered national attention for its unique and innovative wines.

History

The history of South Dakota wine dates back to the late 19th century, when settlers from Europe brought grapevines to the region. However, the harsh South Dakota winters and the state's short growing season made viticulture a challenging endeavor. It wasn't until the late 20th century that the South Dakota wine industry began to take shape, with the establishment of the state's first commercial winery in 1996.

Climate and Geography

South Dakota's climate and geography present unique challenges for grape growing. The state's cold winters and short growing season limit the types of grapes that can be grown. However, several cold-hardy grape varieties, such as Marquette and Frontenac, have proven to be successful in the state's climate.

Wine Styles

South Dakota wineries produce a variety of wine styles, including red, white, rosé, and dessert wines. Many South Dakota wines are made from cold-hardy grape varieties, but some wineries also produce wines from fruits other than grapes, such as apples and cherries.

Wine Industry

The South Dakota wine industry is small but growing. As of 2020, there were approximately 20 wineries in operation in the state. The industry contributes to the state's economy through wine sales, tourism, and employment opportunities.

See Also

• List of wineries in South Dakota
• American wine