Image of red grape clusters with thumprint grape breeding logo and the words "Grape breeding and enology"

Welcome to the Grape Breeding and Enology project website

Located at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, we conduct research in the Department of Horticultural Science and at the Horticultural Research Center. Our focus is on grapevine cultivar development which includes: wine grapes, table grape varieties, and ornamentals that survive and thrive in cold-climate conditions. We also work on understanding the mechanisms of disease and pest resistance so that we can incorporate these traits as a way to improve sustainability for Minnesota growers. In addition to breeding grapes, we develop and teach enology best practices for cold-hardy grapes.

News

Save the Date: Annual Grape Field Day, September 13th, 10am-12pm

Our Annual Grape Field Day will take place on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 from 10am to 12pm. We are excited to once again welcome you to the Horticultural Research Center to taste over 50 kinds of grapes, learn about recent research updates, ask questions about your own grapevines, and enjoy some free donuts! 


Save the Date: Annual Research Update & Cold Climate Conference, February 25-26

The 2025 Annual UMN Grape Breeding & Enology Research Update will take place from 9am-12pm on Wednesday, February 26th at the Water Street Inn in Stillwater, MN. This year's event will held in conjunction with the MGGA's Annual Cold Climate Conference (CCC), on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Registration for the Annual Research Update on the 26th is free, but there is a registration fee associated with the CCC.