Wines From
French- American Hybrids
Early varieties produced wines of marginal quality.
However, continued breeding efforts employing superior vinifera varieties
backcrossed to 1st and 2nd generation interspecific varieties or selections
have resulted in a number of varieties capable of producing quality wines.
Reds
Baco Noir - has been part of the wine grape scene in Michigan
for at least 40 years. The vine is vigorous and produces small tight clusters.
Grapes ripen in midseason and produce a deeply pigmented red wine that
has been described as "Rhone style" or "Beaujolais".
Chancellor - wine quality among the better of the French - American Hybrids.
Leon Millot - a wine with an unmistakable deep purple robe and
a dense blackberry-like aroma. Even though it is a dry red wine, fermenting
whole uncrushed Millot grapes preserves its deliciously straight forward
juicy grape essence. Typically ripens in early September. Excellent with
fowl, particularly turkey or coq au vin.
Marechal Foch - sister seedling of Leon Millot. The fruit is
early ripening. Wines can be made in traditional varietal style but is
evaluated more favorably when blended with a higher tannin grape or wine.
Marechal Foch also has excellent potential for production of nouveau wines
via carbonic maceration. Wines of a blush style have also been produced
from grapes pressed at the time of crush.
Whites
Vidal - the white wines made can be quite versatile ranging from
off dry Germanic style wines to dry barrel-fermented table wines.
Traminette - a cross of Joannes Syre 23.416 and Gerwurztraminer
released in 1996. Wine quality is excellent, nearly identical to Gerwurztraminer.
Wine Grapes Available for Purchase
Reserve your selection now from the 2005 and 2006 harvests at the Grey
Hare Inn, Vineyard Bed and Breakfast. 800-873-0652
| Variety |
$ Price/lb |
2007 |
2008 |
| Marechal Foch |
2.00 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Leon Millot |
2.00 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Chancellor |
2.00 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Baco Noir |
2.00 |
Limited quantity |
Yes |
| Chardonnay |
3.25 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Vidal |
2.00 |
Limited quantity |
Yes |
| Traminette |
2.00 |
Limited |
Ltd |
Logistics: Place reservation for quantity of grapes desired.
As soon as available quantities are determined orders will be filled in
order received. In early fall an estimated harvest time will be given, then
updated, and you will have a one week window to pick your grapes. Hand press,
clippers available for your use. Other supplies can be provided with advance
notice. Wine and cheese receptions will take place throughout harvest time.
