Dear Oenophile
Yep that’s right. Anchorage Alaska has its first full fledged vineyard! I’m talking plants in the ground! Vintus Vinifera on it’s own roots! That’s quite a feat. Hardly anyone grows wine grapes on their own roots. We’re just too cold for the root louse to live up here. 
Yes there are other Alaskan wineries but they are not growing their own Vitis Vinifera. What’s important here is that Mike Mosesian (founder Bell’s Nursery) has about 5,000 square feet of Vinifera growing at the Raspberry location. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris are all in the ground, green and happy. This is Alaska’s first commercial Vineyard! Mike has degree in viticulture from the University of California at Davis. America’s top viticulture and enological school. He and his family have been in grapes for generations and you thought Bell’s was all about tomatoes and flowers.  
About two years ago I was able to sample some of the first wines. Mike asked me point blank what I thought. I said “These are absolutely correct! Good firm mouth feel and textures great acidity and balance.” Today Mike has bottled two wines from his vineyard a Red Blend 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and a Chardonnay. The Red Blend is youthful so a bit tight but comes around with airing. High toned cherry fruit, light body and a touch of tannin. It should age up rather nicely. The Chardonnay is 80% with 10% Riesling, 5% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Pinot Gris. This wines runs citrus fruits both in the nose and on the palate. It’s dry, medium weight and finishes clean and lengthy.
Well there you have it. Now every state in the union is growing grapes. I have a little bit at our Huffman and Minnesota locations but once tourist season hits I expect Bells to run out.
The Offer
2019 Bell’s Red Blend List $42.99 Sale $27.99
2019 Bell’s Chardonnay List $42.99 Sale $27.99
Mix and Match 6 bottles for $24.99 each 
To order email mike@anchoragewinehouse.com Phone Huffman 907 677 9050 or come on down to Minnesota or Huffman !
Cheers
Mike McVittie, CSW
Wine Manager
Anchorage Wine House