The Montana wine industry has flourished, even though it is by no means a traditional wine region. This is because the geographical location has always been an issue. However, the growth of native North American hybrid grapes over the past few decades has made Montana a potential wine-growing country. These hardy little grapes will last the region’s long winters and also make great wines. So, there are some incredible wineries in Montana to explore as a result! How exciting is that?
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How Many Wineries Are In Montana?
There are 8 wineries in Montana, often creating their blends using grapes from other regions due to the location and climate in Montana. However, winemakers have started to cultivate hybrid grapes capable of surviving in the area and producing incredible wines.
What Grapes Grow In Montana?
Vineyards in Montana are known to cultivate grapes used in making red wine varieties. These grapes include Frontenac, Marquette, Marechal Foch and Petite Pearl. While not as prominent, there are a few white wine varieties available, often made using St. Pepin and Prairie Star grapes. Other grapes found in the region include Frontenac Gris, and Crimson Pearl.
Given the climate and location of Montana, many winemakers choose to source their grapes and other fruits from other states to ensure that their wines are of the best quality. This also means that they are not limited to making certain wines and will also not be a victim of changing weather conditions.
What Wine Is Montana Known For?
Montana vineyards are found within the mountain ranges that Montana is famous for. Given the climate and grapes suitable for cultivation in the region, the wines most often produced include Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir.
This is by no means an extensive list and will depend on where each winery sources its fruit from. Imported fruits will allow for a wider range of wines, while some farmers have opted to create fruit-based wines as well.
10 Wineries You Need To Visit In Montana
With everything we have just shared with you, the next logical step is to share our favourite wineries with you. It is worth mentioning that these wineries will be specialising in Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. If these tickle your fancy, it’s worth planning a visit to the mountainous wine region.
1. Missoula Winery
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With grapes sourced from Colombia Valley in Washington, this winery is able to create spectacular blends with a distinctly French style. And when you look at the location, it elevates the experience. The winery is home to 5 valleys and 3 rivers, making it a beautiful location to enjoy wine with friends.
2. Lolo Peak Winery
The second winery license to be awarded in the state was given to Judy Chapman in 1998, and so Lolo Peak Winery was born. Her father taught her the art of winemaking and she only uses western Montana fruits for her blends. Her wines include rhubarb wine, cherry and honey wine, Montana cherry wine, apple and honey wine, plum wine, raspberry wine and spiced apple and honey wine.
3. Tongue River Winery
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This 3-acre vineyard and winery were established in 2010 and also happens to be the only commercial vineyard in eastern Montana. In addition to the grapes, they also cultivate exotic fruits. It’s open all year round and offers tours and tastings for adults.
4. Mission Mountain Winery
Started by the Campbells in 1984, this winery was the first bonded winery in Montana and has since grown to become the largest. They produce over 6000 cases of wine annually that include port, sherry, Johannisberg Riesling, noir blanc, Monster chardonnay, Sundown blush, pinot gris, Ice wine, Monster Red, muscat canelli dinner wine, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and pinot noir.
5. Buffalo Jump Winery
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One of the greatest wine experiences in the area, allowing visitors to paint while enjoying the winery’s finest. And if wine isn’t for you, they also have a wide range of beers.
6. ClearWeather Wines
This winery is home to some award-winning wines using grapes sourced from vineyards in Washington and Oregon. They produce two labels, ClearWeather and Rock Creek, that include syrahs and pinots.
7. Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery
Located a mile from the Rattlesnake Wilderness and Recreation Area is this stunning vineyard and winery. Nestled in 21.5 acres of scenic mountain views, it truly is a sight to behold. Their wines include Flathead cherry dry, Fat Cat, Farm Dog Red, Firehole sauvignon blanc, Blind Curve sauvignon blanc, Roadblock pinot noir, Range Rider Red, and Moonlight pinot noir.
8. Glacier Sun Winery
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This winery happens to be the Flathead Valley’s premier full production winery. Established back in 2011 with Fruit, White, Red and Dessert wines on offer, there really is something for everyone.
9. Trapper Creek Winery
Formerly Painted Rocks Winery, Trapper Creek Winery specializes in honey-based wines. Mead wines happen to be a staple here including light mead, spiced mead, dark mead and even fruit blended varieties.
10. Rolling Hills Winery
This little winery produces six fruit wine varieties that include plum, honey, rhubarb, chokecherry, raspberry, and blueberry. The rhubarb and raspberries are grown on the farm with the rest coming from local farms (excluding the blueberries).
Visit The Vineyards in Montana & Drink Their Wine
Despite the harsh winters in Montana and the exposure to nature, Montana’s specialty wineries represent a thriving wine scene in the most unlikely territory. What’s more, the development of the original North American hybrid grapes changed the game for winemakers from Montana. Unlike most fruits, this exotic grape variety can withstand freezing temperatures and still bear fruit during the short Montana summer.
The best part? These grapes produce wines that are actually very good. The impossible wind farm seems to be a good development for winemakers and Montana residents in the surrounding areas. So, the next time you are in the state, why not visit one or two?