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What to drink in North America? Top 3 North American Wine Varieties

Last update: Mon Dec 16 2024
Top 3 North American Wine Varieties
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01

Wine Variety

ONTARIO, Canada
4.0
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Vidal Blanc, commonly known as Vidal, is a dry white wine produced from the Vidal hybrid grape variety that is grown in Ontario and the northeastern United States. The Vidal hybrid is a cross between the French Ugni Blanc and Rayon d'Or.


This hardy variety with thick skin is very resistant to cold, has high natural acidity and sugar levels, and it is very low in tannins. As a result, Vidal wine can be made in two varieties: medium-bodied dry and off-dry variety, but it can also be vinified into a luscious dessert wine or ice wine. 
02

Wine Variety

CALIFORNIA, United States of America
3.7
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Zinfandel is a red grape variety that was introduced to California sometime in the 1850s. For a long time, its origins were unknown, but recent findings have shown that this flagship Californian grape, as well as the well-known Italian Primitivo, are genetically identical and descend from the somewhat obscure Croatian variety Crljenak Kaštelanski.


Since it was introduced, Zinfandel thrived in the United States and became one of the most commonly planted grapes. Despite its origin, the character of American Zinfandel differs from Primitivo and Crljenak. It is heavily terroir-driven and can vary in style, but it is typically dense and fruit-forward with aromas reminiscent of black and red berries, pepper, and herbs. 
03

Wine Variety

CALIFORNIA, United States of America
3.5
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Petite Sirah is a common name for a red grape variety mainly cultivated in California. The grape produces dark, powerful, and full-bodied red wines with medium acidity and good aging potential. The aromas and the palate are dominated by plum, blueberry, cherry, licorice, and peppery notes.


Despite its confusing name, the grape is not small (petite) in character and is only related to Syrah. For a very long time, the name was often wrongly used for several varieties grown in California, but DNA profiling has shown that most of the plantings were Durif—an old French cross between Syrah and little-known Peloursin that was discovered in Tullins by François Durif. 

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North American Wine Varieties