The polar vortex that gripped Nebraska in February with seven consecutive days of sub-zero temperatures may have serious implications for the state’s vineyards. While many cold-hardy grape varieties can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F, the unusually mild December and January may have left vines vulnerable when the extreme cold hit. Vineyard and winery owners across the state are now preparing for winter pruning, a crucial process that removes most of the previous year’s growth to encourage healthy new development. However, many growers may will be checking for bud damage during pruning to allow for additional bud selection—an approach that could help mitigate losses if primary buds were damaged.
The Nebraska Wine Grape Growers Association, a group dedicated to advancing the quality and resilience of Nebraska’s wine industry, is closely monitoring the situation as winter pruning progresses. “We won’t know the full extent of the damage until we start examining the vines,” says Mick McDowell of Miletta Vista Winery. “Given how warm the early winter was, followed by this brutal cold snap, we expect to see some level of bud mortality and, in extreme cases, even trunk injury.”
Rich Hilske of Cellar 426 in Ashland shares similar concerns. “Our vines are bred for cold-hardiness, but the abrupt temperature swings create added stress. This year’s growing season may present challenges, and we are preparing for potential yield reductions,” says Hilske.
The longtime stewards of their winery’s vineyards, are closely assessing their vines as they prepare for another season of winemaking. Despite the challenges ahead, there may be a small silver lining—severe cold can reduce insect populations that overwinter in vine bark or soil, potentially lowering pest pressure in the coming season. However, the primary focus remains on evaluating vine survival and determining what steps are needed to support recovery for the 2025 vintage.
As vineyard work intensifies, guests can still enjoy handcrafted foods and award-winning Nebraska wines at many of Nebraska’s vineyards, taking in the beauty of the countryside as the vines awaken for a new growing season.
NWGGA will continue to provide updates as Nebraska’s top vineyards complete their winter pruning assessments.
For more information and ongoing updates contact the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture's Paul Read, professor, and Stephen Gamet, research technologist.
