A recent boom in Nebraska
vineyards harkens back to an earlier time when grape vines were
plentiful. In 1879 there were 84,000 vines reported growing in
Cass County alone.
Mr. Furnas is
said by his neighbors to have "grape on the brain."
He has been growing grapes in Nebraska fourteen years.
Minutes
of the Nebraska State Board of Horticulture - 1871.

Robert Furnas vineyards near Brownville.

Jules Sandoz vineyards near Ellsworth.

Left: Cuthills
Vineyards, just west of Pierce, boasts 15 1/2 acres planted with
more than fifty varieties of wine grapes. Most vines were planted
in 1985. Wine production began in 1990.
Center:
In 1996 Justin Moody and Curt Rising planted one hundred grape
vines in Dawes County and started Lover's Leap vineyards. Eighteen
varieties of wine are now in production.
Right:
James Arthur Vineyards, located near Raymond, opened its winery
to the public in 1997.
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