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Wis. Wineries Hopeful For Big Grape Harvest

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin's wineries are hopeful that this year's warm, dry summer creates a big harvest for grapes.

Botham Vineyards' president Peter Botham tells the Wisconsin State Journal that this year's yield is a "once-in-a lifetime harvest" after a late May freeze cost many their crops.

Botham says the crop volume changes dramatically from year to year in Wisconsin, but this year the fruit is extraordinarily ripe. Other growers are reporting strong results.

The state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection does not keep statistics on the small grape-growing industry in Wisconsin.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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