-
One of the six main Bordeaux varieties, Malbec, or Cot as it is called in France, is a great stand-alone variety but normally used as a blender. It is fairly productive and provides deep color. It is grown throughout the world including France, the U.S., Argentina and Chile. However, it is not very winter hardy, so it is not recommended for regions dipping below 20 degrees F.
-
The most popular white Rhone variety, Viognier is often compared with Chardonnay despite its more aromatic, perfume qualities and smaller production. The clusters are much smaller than Chardonnay, but are just as susceptible to mildews and rot. It is a cold tolerant variety, but requires a full growing season to achieve optimum ripeness. It is sometimes co-fermented with Syrah.
-
This is the latest ripening variety of the Bordeaux family of grapes. It produces rich colored wines with high tannins. The clusters and berries are small. It is grown throughout the world in small quantities. But, it is not considered a winter hearty variety.
-
Montepulciano is notable grape variety in Italy. It is a productive, late ripening variety that likes a hot, dry growing season. It is susceptible to Winter temperatures below 20 degrees F so is not recommended in cold climates. Typically, it is used in high quality wines of Central and Southern Italy. The wines produced have a deep ruby color with moderate acidity.
-
Flame Seedless is a late season, seedless variety that can be used for eating fresh or dried to make larger raisins.
-
Diamond Muscat is an early season, seedless variety that can be used for eating fresh or dried to make raisins. It has a muscat flavor.
-
Autumn Royal is a purple/black seedless table grape. Grown naturally, it has one of the largest berries of any seedless black variety.
