Wine sales of Wisconsin-made wine have risen faster than sales of any other alcoholic beverage in the state over the last five years. Melissa Burlaga reports that trend is being seen locally.

The White Winter Winery in Iron River is seeing an increase in sales. White Winter Winery opened ten years ago. Company Vice President Johnathn Hamilton says the wine is popular because people are looking for a more something from this region, and something different. “You know they’re moving away from beer like all the baby boomers are growing up and moving away from beer and moving in towards wines that tend to have a little more subtle flavors and a little easier to drink.” Hamilton says business has been booming for his winery, just like the state trend. “We moved into a new building two years ago in April and almost tripled our production and since that time we’ve outgrown our space now and will probably expand again within the next two years.” Hamilton also says almost all of their raw ingredients come from with in one hundred and fifty miles of their shop. “When folks come in and buy a bottle of white winter mead they’re not only buying from us and helping to support us but they’re buying from the local farmers in the area whether they’re in Duluth up at Lakewood Dairy Farm or Sunshine Honey Farms down in Mason, they’re buying from all of those folks as well and we just really wouldn’t be here without the support of our local folks.

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