Is Kentucky Wine Country?

       By: Anna Bradford
Posted: 2008-06-03 05:40:27
In the great state of Kentucky much of the tobacco farming is phasing out and wine grapes are moving in. The Northern Kentucky Vintners and Grape Growers Association envision a wealth of vineyards nestled among the rolling hills of Kentucky.The heritage of wine making in the United States that started in Kentucky over two hundred years ago continues today. Many European immigrants planted extensive vineyards in Kentucky. In 1798, the nation's first commercial vineyard was planted in Nicholasville, Kentucky by a Frenchman named Jean Jacques Dufour, winemaker for the Marquis de LaFayette. It was backed by money from several prominent statesmen, including Henry Clay. By 1860, Kentucky was the nation's third largest grape and wine producer in the United States. Unfortunately, Prohibition came in the 1920's putting an abrupt halt to the state's winemaking as grapevines were literally uprooted from the ground.Today of course the story is much different. The grape industry in Kentucky is experiencing resurgence. New vineyards are being planted and new wineries are being built. The Kentucky winemakers believe that the only way to make great wines is to intimately know what grows best on Kentucky soil. The climate in Kentucky, characterized by warm, yet moist conditions is perfect for growing well balanced grapes. The summers are usually warm and the winters cool. Fortunately for Northern Kentucky, the Ohio River moderates the winter cold and can shield grapes from freezes. Like those who came before them more than 200 years ago, Kentucky winemakers are making the finest award winning wine Kentucky soil has to offer.There are many Kentucky wineries where visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings. They offer a unique, relaxing weekend getaway all wrapped up in warm southern hospitality. Stroll through a sun-drenched vineyard and learn how today's winemakers are carrying on this wonderful ancient craft. And because they're so many located throughout the state, it's an experience that's close to you no matter where you travel in Kentucky.Anna Bradford is an author and blogger for Habco Services Group. If you haven't experienced the best wine that the great Commonwealth of Kentucky now provides, visit Elk Creek Vineyards. Aside from being the largest winery in the State of Kentucky, Elk Creek Vineyards offers their Kentucky wine available for sale online. Or, you can visit the winery in person for a tour and tasting.
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