(Published April 1, 2003)
A recent boom in Nebraska vineyards harkens back to an earlier time when grape vines were plentiful. In 1879 there were 84,000 vines reported growing in Cass County alone.
Mr. Furnas is said by his neighbors to have “grape on the brain.” He has been growing grapes in Nebraska fourteen years.
Minutes of the Nebraska State Board of Horticulture – 1871.
Robert Furnas vineyards near Brownville.
Jules Sandoz vineyards near Ellsworth.
Left: Cuthills Vineyards, just west of Pierce, boasts 15 1/2 acres planted with more than fifty varieties of wine grapes. Most vines were planted in 1985. Wine production began in 1990.
Center: In 1996 Justin Moody and Curt Rising planted one hundred grape vines in Dawes County and started Lover’s Leap vineyards. Eighteen varieties of wine are now in production.
Right: James Arthur Vineyards, located near Raymond, opened its winery to the public in 1997.
