It was developed by pioneering American grape breeder Elmer Swenson in 1980 in cooperation with the University of Minnesota.
Should Edelweiss not be harvested early, the completely ripe Vitis labrusca flavoring becomes too strong for the palate of most.
This variety bears the Minnesota winters, but mulching is encouraged.
Edelweiss has strong resistance to grape disease and fungus and can tolerate negative thirty-five degree temperatures[citation needed].
The wineries in the state have won numerous awards nationwide with their Edelweiss wines[citation needed].