Having a few hours of straight sunshine has been a challenge this spring in Minnesota and we had some bright sunshine and 65 degree temperatures which meant everyone was outside! We headed to visit a few wineries and then go hiking in Osceola before the clouds and more thunderstorms rolled in.
I figured I would squeeze in at least one more Wine Week post! The first winery on the list was St. Croix Vineyards. Just outside of Stillwater it is probably one of the easiest vineyards to get to and has the whole “wine experience” emphasized the most. That doesn’t mean that I think they had the best wine but it was packed full of people and they had their tasting room and gift shop set up well, their wines were displayed beautifully and they had the best selection of merchandise.
For $5 dollars you sample four white wines, three red’s and their dessert wine. Not a bad deal for $5 dollars, and if you happen to purchase two or more bottles that tasting price comes off.
White Wines
Chardonnay – Perhaps the preeminent white wine variety in the world today, Chardonnay is one of the more familiar names on our list. Our version of this classic variety has a delicately fruity nose, complemented by spicy French-oak overtones.
Seyval – Widely grown in France, Seyval has become one of the leading grapes in the Eastern U.S. Our Seyval has a delectable fruitiness and will complement a meal of poultry or seafood.
Vignoles – Vignoles (Vin-ýol) originated in France but is really more Germanic in character. Our version features delightful grapefruit and peach aromas and will be appreciated by everyone who enjoys a fine Riesling.
Delaware – Originating around 1850 in Delaware, Ohio, this variety is commonly considered the highest quality American wine grape. Our version is a classic example with a beautiful, intensely fruity and floral bouquet.
Red Wines
Rosé – Our Frontenac Rosé has a lovely ruby color with pleasant cherry and berry aromas. Just the right wine for a hot summer day. I think the Rose had the prettiest label.
Summer Red – Summer Red is a charming blend of fruity, medium bodied varietals. Deftly balanced, it delivers plenty of ripe, rich flavors built around a core of cherry and raspberry. This delightful wine is perfect for a summer gathering and can even be served slightly chilled.
Frontenac – Frontenac is an exciting grape variety recently released from the University of Minnesota viticulture program. This wine has a beautiful garnet color, a robust earthy body, and a distinctive cherry aroma.
Dessert Wine
Raspberry Infusion – An intense dessert experience, capturing the rich essence of freshly harvested raspberries coupled with the complexity of fine red wine. “This massive dessert wine begs to be consumed with chocolate” – Minneapolis Star
They even make a chocolate sauce with the dessert wine. This might have been my favorite item, but I didn’t dare buy a jar out of fear of sitting down and eating the whole thing with a spoon. Think nutella meets raspberry jam. It was really rich and tasty.
I enjoyed the Seyval and the Raspberry Infusion but the others just didn’t do anything for me. We wandered around, took a few pictures and headed onto the next winery.
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