2013 Int’l Cold Climate Comp Open for Entries
Tireless work has been had in the University of Minnesota, Cornell University, Iowa State University, and others to develop grape vines that will not only produce fantastic wines, but also survive weather in which not even the most daring Nordic skier or outdoorsman will attempt to brave (Trust those that have tried). And even though initial efforts were met with derision, much as California was not previously taken seriously as a wine-producing location, it seems there has been a turning point.
Varietals such as Marquette, La Crescent, Frontenac, and Brianna are not only being met with acceptance, but with adulation amongst wine drinkers and critics alike. Winery tours, tastings, and dare we say media coverage is starting to become commonplace in places previously only known for their corn production. People are heading down to their local vineyards and the picturesque settings not just to wed, but to wine.
This August 16th, the accomplishments of those who are blazing the trail will be celebrated, measured, and guided with the 5th annual International Cold Climate Wine Competition held at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, MN. Sommeliers, enologists, wine writers, and of course the important wine sellers, will be on hand to judge the crafted wines that are all created from cold hardy varietal grapes. There will be categories for red, white, fortified, ice-wines, fruit blends, and the newly created Frontenac Rosé category after judges last year exclaimed, ‘But this Rosé is really great!”
Medal winners get prodigious placement and publicity, not to mention bragging rights. If the past is any indicator surprises are sure to be had in those who come out on top. It is with this aplomb that all professional winemakers utilizing cold hardy varietals are heartily invited to submit their life’s passion to the International Cold Climate Wine Competition.
Entries must be submitted by 11:00PM Thursday, August 1, 2013.
Registration and official rules and procedures can be found at www.mngrapegrowers.com/competition.
