Nebraska agriculture is well known for its row crops like and corn and soybeans, but prior to the U.S. prohibition of alcohol, the state was home to a fairly active grape industry. According to UNL Professor of Horticulture/Viticulture Paul E. Read Nebraska was home to more than 5,000 acres of grapes prior to 1920.
Today viticulture is slowly making a comeback as according to the Nebraska grape growers and wine association there are nearly 50 vineyards and wineries in the state.
Started nearly 20 years ago is Mac’s Creek Winery near Lexington, Nebraska. The operation was one of the first five in the state according to Max ‘Mac’ McFarland. Mac comments that his sons say the vineyard is a “hobby” that grew out of control.
Started with just 100 vines, a small acreage, and maybe 1,200 gallons a year. Mac’s Creek has grown to hundreds of vines, more acres and expects to produce over 12,000 gallons of wine in 2021.
To handle the volatile climate and cold winters of Nebraska Mac explains that it takes a hardy variety of grapes. This means that many of the standard varieties of wines many are used to aren’t made in Nebraska. Those varieties thrive in California, but would likely freeze to death at temperatures much below 20 degrees. Even though the wines may not be as familiar, Nebraska wines have performed and won at international competitions for years.