The grape variety Frontenac Noir

Frontenac Noir is a cold-hardy red grape variety developed at the University of Minnesota, primarily cultivated in northern wine regions such as the Upper Midwest of the United States and eastern Canada. Its wines are known for their deep garnet color and expressive aromatics. On the nose, Frontenac Noir exhibits intense fruit-forward aromas including black cherry, blackberry, and plum, complemented by subtle notes of chocolate and herbal undertones. On the palate, the wines are medium to full-bodied, displaying vibrant acidity, moderate tannins, and flavors echoing dark berries, with occasional hints of spice and earthy minerality.

Frontenac Noir is highly versatile and is vinified into a range of styles, from dry reds and rosés to fortified and even dessert wines, owing to its high natural acidity and robust character. This grape particularly excels in producing food-friendly wines. Recommended pairings include grilled or roasted meats such as lamb or beef, rich poultry dishes, wild game, and hearty stews. The grape’s bright acidity also makes it suitable for pairing with tomato-based pasta, aged cheeses, and dishes featuring earthy mushrooms. Its adaptability and resilience have made Frontenac Noir increasingly popular in emerging cool-climate wine regions.