More Iowa wine industry news: Even though most of the state seems to be covered in nothing but corn fields, Iowa is entering a new era of winemaking. Before Prohibition, Iowa was actually a leading state among the nation’s wine producers, but as the state began to rebuild following the national alcohol ban, the Armistice Day Storm of 1940 effectively destroyed any remaining grape vines and apple trees throughout Iowa. Most of Iowa’s vineyards are currently cultivating their third or fourth plantings, as the state’s grape vines have also fallen victim to herbicides that are commonly used in corn production. Unfortunately, these chemicals are spread easily by the wind and can lead to wilted leaves or even the death of the vine. A further challenge, Iowa’s climate presents seasonal extremes throughout the year, as the heat and humidity of summer can lead to harmful fungal diseases and the bitter cold winters are too harsh for many varietals.