Guide to Wine Podcast: Episode 10

Embracing Hybrid Grapes and Creating Unique Wines with Wisconsin Winemaker Erin Rasmussen

Air Date: Wednesday, July 26th 2023

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When you think of wineries I bet you think of the wineries in California, Washington, and maybe even Oregon. Rarely do you ever think about a winery being in Wisconsin! When I think of Wisconsin I think cold, snowy, wet and well.. cheese! 

​However, today’s guest, Erin Rasmussen–the founder of American Wine Project, is flipping the script and bringing Wisconsin produced wines to the forefront. Erin grew up in Wisconsin experiencing the intense pleasures of seasonal produce and handcrafted cheese and it was this interest in flavor that grew into a passion for fermentation and wine.

And that passion has ultimately led to Erin being the unique and innovative winemaker that she is today. Listen in as Erin talks about her journey into the wine world, which was not the traditional path by a long shot. She explains the fascinating way she produces wines with hybrid grapes and why her mindset had to change since she was making wine in a wet, cold climate. She’s also diving into how she runs a winery without paid help and big machinery! 

If you are ready to learn about this different and unique wine from American Wine project grab yourself a glass and let’s dive in!

Are you excited to try a bottle of hybrid wine from American Wine Project? Head to their website and use code WISCO for 15% off your purchase through 08/15/2023. 

Connect with Erin Rasmussen
American Wine Project - https://americanwineproject.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/americanwineproject/

Episode Highlights:

• What are hybrid grapes and how do they differ from the wine grapes you’re familiar with
• How Erin broke into the wine industry
• Why Erin chose to open her winery in Wisconsin
• The challenges that arise from producing wines in a cold and wet environment
• Why Erin doesn’t use powdered tannin in her wines and what she does differently
• How pH plays a huge role in the creation of American Wine Project wines
• How she runs a winery as a team of one without hired labor and big machinery
• Erin’s top wine picks for beginners and established wine enthusiasts

Tune in on your favorite podcast apps Apple, Google, Amazon, Spotify, Stitcher, and more!  If you’re loving this podcast, please rate, review and follow! 

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