Grapes were probably among the first fruits cultivated by humans. Archaeological evidence suggests that people were growing grapes for food and drink as long ago as 6000 BCE. Today, grape production is one of the largest food industries in the world, with more than 72 million tons of grapes grown every year.

Grapes can be grown successfully in the Upper Midwest, and success depends on choosing a variety suited to this climate, selecting an ideal site, and carefully following proven cultural practices.

Grapes need full sunlight and warm temperatures to ripen, so plant them where they will have southern exposure. Plant in spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Grapevines need the support of a trellis or arbor, and should be properly pruned every year. Once established, well-tended grapevines can produce fruit for 40 years or more.