The newly created Alexandria Lakes AVA is Minnesota’s first recognized appellation. In a petition to the TTB, Robert G. Johnson, owner of Carlos Creek – the lone winery in the AVA – successfully argued the unique geological features and climate of the region warranted a new appellation. In his petition Johnson explained how retreating glaciers formed this 17 square mile region, located in Douglas County. The glaciers left a unique soil structure and created the many lakes that surround the area. The lakes are the deepest in the county and moderate the climate – the Alexandria Lakes AVA has higher winter temperatures and lower summer temperatures relative to surrounding regions.

Despite the climatic and geological evidence, the petition was not without dissenters. The TTB received two letters opposing the appellation. The question arose, since Carlos Creek has limited grape plantings in the appellation and its wine list includes predominantly wines such as Malbec, Zinfandel, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon listed as product of America; should the TTB have granted them an appellation? While the winery produced satisfactory evidence for the TTB; the effectiveness of the appellation is in the hands of the Carlos Creek. Will they produce wines made from grapes grown in the appellation and will those wines exhibit a unique and definable region character? Time will tell.