Prairie Star Grape Vine

Prairie Star is cold hardy to approximately -38°F and is widely planted for its naturally low acidity and restrained, neutral aromatics. It serves as an excellent blending component in dry white wines, where it helps moderate overall acidity while contributing body and length to the finish. In some cases, Prairie Star is produced as a varietal or blended with a small proportion of a more aromatic variety and then barrel fermented, resulting in a style reminiscent of certain California Chardonnays—yet made from fully winter-hardy grapes.

Fruit chemistry typically shows acidity below 1% with sugar levels in the 20–22° Brix range. Prairie Star, like Louise Swenson, performs best on heavier soils with higher silt and clay content, while sandier sites require adequate irrigation. Vines have a somewhat upright growth habit, with mid-season bud break and early-season ripening.

A true Elmer Swenson selection derived from the cross ES 2-7-13 × ES 2-8-1, Prairie Star can be demanding about site selection and management. When planted on appropriate slopes and soils, however, it is capable of producing some of the most elegant regional white wines available. Under ideal conditions, vines are cold hardy, set fruit reliably, and ripen to create full-bodied white wines that blend exceptionally well with varieties such as La Crescent, Frontenac Gris, and Louise Swenson.

Due to its preference for Vertical Shoot Positioning, Prairie Star often requires additional labor and may exhibit inconsistent fruit set, resulting in lower yields. Even so, its wine quality makes it a variety many growers maintain as a labor of love. Vines are vigorous, producing long, loose clusters with moderate productivity and generally do not require cluster thinning, though poor fruit set can occur in some seasons.

In the glass, Prairie Star stands out for its smooth mouthfeel and generous palate presence rather than aromatic intensity. The absence of foxiness or overt hybrid character is particularly notable, with a vinifera-like texture and finish that few cold-hardy hybrids achieve. While typically neutral, select vintages may reveal subtle floral nuances. Prairie Star is especially valued in white and sparkling blends where added mid-palate weight and finish are desired.

Named after the town of Star Prairie in St. Croix County, located near the Apple River, this variety reflects the regional heritage cherished by breeder Elmer Swenson. Prairie Star continues to be appreciated as a versatile and distinctive white grape well suited to both blending and carefully crafted varietal wines.

Disease susceptibility:
• Black rot – moderately susceptible
• Downy mildew – slightly susceptible
• Powdery mildew – slightly susceptible
• Botrytis – slightly susceptible

USDA Zone: 3-9

Ripening Dates: Late September

Sun: Full Sun

Mature Height: 12-15' and higher with proper support

Mature Spread: upwards of 15'

Support Needed

Self Fertile

Due to individual state restrictions, we are unable to ship grape vines to customers in Oregon, Washington, and California.

Ships Spring 2026