We love a good underdog story—especially when it ends with a glass of delicious wine… enter La Crescent! A little-known white grape that’s quietly stealing hearts (and palates) everywhere it goes. If you’re into vibrant, aromatic white wines that bring the wow factor, La Crescent might just be your next obsession.
Let’s dive into what makes this grape so special, what to expect from the wines it produces, and why it deserves a spot in your wine rack—stat.
La Crescent (pronounced “luh CRES-ent”) is a hybrid grape, which means it was created by crossing other grape varieties to bring out the best traits of each. It was developed by the University of Minnesota (yes, wine is thriving in the Midwest!) and is designed to handle cold climates like a champ. So while Chardonnay might shiver in the snow, La Crescent says, “Bring it on!”
Cold-hardy and disease-resistant, this grape is a favorite among growers in cooler regions like New York, Vermont, Minnesota, and parts of Canada. But it’s not just tough—it’s also delicious.
Imagine the fruity punch of a tropical cocktail, the zing of a citrus grove, and the soft floral elegance of springtime in a glass—that’s La Crescent.
Most La Crescent wines are:
Highly aromatic – Think honeysuckle, peach blossom, and candied citrus peel.
Fruit-forward – Apricot, tangerine, green apple, and pineapple often show up.
Bright and zesty – With refreshing acidity that keeps things crisp and clean.
Versatile – It can range from off-dry to semi-sweet, depending on the style.
If you love Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, or Muscat—La Crescent is about to become your new BFF.
This wine is a flavor party, and it wants equally exciting snacks to hang out with. Thanks to its fruitiness and lively acidity, La Crescent is fantastic with foods that have bold flavors or a touch of sweetness.
Try it with:
Spicy dishes like Thai curry or chili-glazed shrimp 🌶️
Fresh goat cheese, aged gouda, or creamy blue cheese 🧀
Roasted poultry, glazed ham, or teriyaki salmon 🍗🐟
Tangy fruit-based salads or charcuterie with fig jam 🥗
It’s also ridiculously refreshing on its own. Trust us—it’s a summer sipper dream come true.
Let’s be honest: we all love a good Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, but it’s time to branch out. La Crescent is perfect for wine drinkers who crave something vibrant, flavorful, and a little off the beaten path. It’s exciting, it’s expressive, and it plays nicely with food (and friends).
Plus, choosing La Crescent means you’re supporting sustainable winemaking in cooler-climate regions like New York—where grapes like this thrive naturally with minimal intervention.
Here at Suhru & Lieb Vineyards, we’re all about showcasing exciting, expressive varietals—and our La Crescent and our brand new Sparkling La Crescent is no exception. Our still and sparkling versions both bring out all the sunshine, citrus, and floral elegance this grape has to offer. It’s crisp, clean, and just the right amount of off-dry. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just in need of a new favorite white, La Crescent is here for you.
👉 Visit our tasting room or shop online to grab a bottle (or three). Your taste buds will thank you.
La Crescent: It’s like sunshine in a bottle—and who couldn’t use more of that? ☀️🍷
