US: More Vineyards Popping Up All Across Iowa

(KCAUTV) - Forget about growing corn and raising cattle, making wine is the next big industry in Iowa. For nearly a year now, John and Lenee Sinnot have been enjoying the fruits of their labor, literally. The husband and wife couple opened up the "Old Town Vineyard and Winery" in Ida Grove last May. It's the first of its kind in the area, and ever since it opened, business has been great.
"We practically sold out of our wine, which is not a bad problem to have haha," said Lenee Sinnot.
And it's no surprise considering a new report out that shows a big increase in vineyards popping up all over the state. In 2000, Iowa had just five vineyards; 13 years later there's over 300 in the state. The Sinnot's say there's a couple reasons why vineyards are becoming so popular here: one, it's the ambience of it all.
"They love experience,"said Sinnot.
The other reason, the type of grapes that are now being produced.
"The fact that we can now grow varieties of grapes in Iowa that are cold climate type grapes makes a big difference," said Sinnot.
Despite having a great first year, the Sinnot's say they have to do more than just sell wine to make a profit.