A French hybrid, Baco Noir was created by François Baco in 1902 by cross breeding Folle Blanche with a North American grape from the vitis riparia family, in an effort to create vines that were resistant to phylloxera. Originally grown in Burgundy and Loire Valley, Baco Noir now thrives in the cooler climates of Canada and the northeast of the United States. A grower-friendly alternative to Pinot Noir, Baco Noir produces light to medium bodied red wines with rich notes of blueberry, plum, black pepper, and tobacco. Enjoy it alongside roasted pheasant and baked trout.

Henry Of Pelham Ontario Baco Noir 2021

The Niagara Peninsula is the most prominent wine region in Canada, representing nearly two-thirds of the country's wine grapes, thanks to its proximity to the moderating waters of Lake Ontario and the protective rock face of the Niagara Escarpment. This red, made from 100% Baco Noir, is spicy, rich, and smooth. Opening with ripe hints of currant and blackberry, the wine also offers subtle sweetness, spice, hints of citrus peel and rose backed by freshness, and a slightly smoky finish. Try it with barbecue, glazed ham, white pizza, and strong cheeses.

Grape Photo Credit: Ursula Brühl, Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof - 76833 Siebeldingen, GERMANY