If you are a commercial winery and qualify for this competition, it is a "don't miss" event.
This is the ONLY of its kind competition for the cold hardy variety and we expect this 2nd Annual Event to exceed the inaugural kick-off.

Why a Cold Climate Wine Competition?
While there are dozens of wine competitions around the United States, there is no competition devoted to the promotion of quality wines made exclusively from cold hardy grape cultivars.

What kinds of wine can be entered?
There will be 32 different competition categories, including Native Grape, French & American Hybrids, Sparkling, Specialty & Fortified, Non-Grape, and 100% Cold Hardy Grape wines.

Who will do the wine judging?
The ICCWC is pleased to present judges who collectively represent a broad level of expertise and experience.

What grape varieties will be considered for the 100% Cold Hardy Categories?
Varieties considered generally hardy without winter protection in central Minnesota (USDA zone 4)

Where can I learn more?
2010 ICCWC Call For Entries Press Release
2010 Press release announcing the International Cold Climate Wine Competition
2010 2-page excerpt about the ICCWC from Ag-Hort booklet
2009 International Cold Climate Wine Competition Results

Competition Coordination: Gordon Rouse ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )

Who will be allowed to enter wines?
Commercial wineries meeting the criteria for cold hardy grape or fruit content. As the ICCWC purpose is to promote the industry and quality of wines available, only bottled, commercially-available wines may be entered. Wines entered must have been produced with a minimum of 50 cases available at retail when released.

What kind of awards will there be?
In addition to Double Gold, Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, the ICCWC awards three Best of Category wines (red, white, specialty/fortified) as well as the Minnesota Governor's Cup Award.

How do I register?
Register Here!

What does it cost to enter?
The entry fee is $40 fee + 2 bottles per entry.