Introduced in 2002 by the University of Minnesota, La Crescent is the result of crossing two selections developed
by Elmer Swenson, a pioneering grape breeder who introduced a number of new cultivars that are hardy in the
Upper Midwest.
Plant attributes include extreme cold hardiness (as low as -36°F), good vigor and production, and moderate resistance to many of the common fungal diseases. Grapes mature to a
golden color on long, loosely bunched clusters in late summer. Harvesting occurs mid-season.
La Crescent produces Germanic-type wines reminiscent of Riesling. It is grown for its production of high-quality,
good-structured, off-dry and sweet white wines with intense apricot, peach, and citrus aromas and flavors
