Description

Muskrat Creek Vineyard

Nestled in the scenic expanse of Edgar, Wisconsin, Muskrat Creek Vineyard is a family-run enterprise founded on the Gust family farm in 2014. Owners Debra Gust-Boerema and Martin Boerema, together with their son David Lemmer, cultivate a variety of hardy grapevines specifically bred to endure the harsh Northern Midwest climate.

History and Background

Muskrat Creek Vineyard originated on a piece of longstanding agricultural land owned by the Gust family. The vineyard was named after a creek flowing through the farm, embodying a deep connection with the natural landscape. The family's extensive 30-year background in diverse agricultural practices informs their environmentally conscious approach to vineyard management.

Vineyard Details and Wine Production

The vineyard specializes in cold-hardy grape varieties developed by the University of Minnesota, ensuring a robust performance in the challenging local climate. Production focuses on several key types:

• Itasca (1650 lbs)
• Frontenac (3000 lbs)
• Frontenac Gris (3000 lbs)
• Petite Pearl (1500 lbs)
• Brianna (1000 lbs)

These grapes are nurtured using eco-friendly methods, including the integration of flowers to attract beneficial insects as a natural pest control strategy, minimizing the reliance on harsh insecticides.

Visitor Information and Experiences

Muskrat Creek Vineyard welcomes visitors seasonally from June to October, providing a rustic, outdoor seating experience. Despite not operating a commercial winery, the Boerema family enthusiastically shares wines produced from their own grape yields.

Opening Hours

• Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm
• Saturday: 10am - 2pm
• Sunday: Closed

Visitors are advised to confirm availability before visiting, as the vineyard is dedicated to a personal, intimate visitor experience.

Notable Wines or Specialties

While Muskrat Creek Vineyard does not operate as a commercial winery, it takes pride in offering tastings of wines made from its diverse range of grape varieties, reflecting the unique terroir and innovative grape breeding techniques of the region.

Contact Information and Location

• Telephone:
  • Debra: 805-212-6369
  • Martin: 805-421-6436
  • David: 715-212-5973
• Email:
  • martin.boerema@gmail.com
  • martindebi@earthlink.net
• Pick-up Location:
  • 127406 Urmanski Rd, Edgar, WI 54426
• Mailing Address:
  • 1240 Kickbusch St, Wausau, WI 54403
• Email for General Inquiries:
  • info@muskratcreekvineyard.com

Muskrat Creek Vineyard offers a refreshingly genuine slice of Northern Midwest viticulture, paired with a transparent, eco-conscious approach to farming and wine production. Visitors and wine enthusiasts are invited to experience the dedication and passion of a family deeply rooted in both the history and the future of Wisconsin's winemaking landscape.