Wine Travel - Nebraska's Blossoming Wine Country

    Nebraska is well known for its agriculture, supplying an abundance of food crops from the bountiful farms dotting the landscape. As a bonus for wine lovers, grapes are among the crops thriving here, particularly in the eastern portion of the state. The confluence of the Platte and Missouri Rivers creates lush valleys and an ideal environment for a burgeoning number of Nebraska wineries just waiting for your visit.

    Let's take a closer look at the Nebraska wine industry, and explore Omaha and beyond.

Nebraska Wine

    Nebraska, much like other midwestern states, has a long tradition of grape growing and wine making. Just before Prohibition, over 5000 acres of grapes proliferated the Nebraska countryside. Since the mid 80's, Nebraska's wine industry has taken flight and now wineries are springing up in all regions of the state.

    And while most people associate Nebraska's terrain with miles of flat cornfields, that image is misleading at best. It's interesting to note that Nebraska actually has several different microclimates. This is especially true in the state's eastern portion, home to Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska's two largest cities.

    Nebraska now boasts over 25 wineries, and almost all rely on Nebraska grown fruit and grapes to create wines that are rapidly becoming known and respected by wine consumers and the wine press alike. We discussed the Nebraska wine industry with Carey Potter, Executive Director of the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association, who shared some promising news about the industry. Plans are taking shape to officially designate one or more Nebraska wine trails, with cooperation and support from the Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism.

    People often ask us, "How can wine from one midwestern state be much different than another?". The answer is simple - the soil. Different climatic and geophysical conditions yield different flavors to the grape, and it's a fascinating discovery to experience the end result.

    All told, we visited five wineries in the Metro Region of Nebraska, encompassing Omaha, nestled along the Missouri River, and Lincoln, Nebraska's capital city less than an hour away.

    Come along with us as we learn more about Omaha, Lincoln, and Nebraska wine.