More Uncommon Red Wines and White Wines

Norton Wine

One of the more uncommon but interesting wines is the Norton wine. In 1835, Dr. Daniel Norton of Virginia developed this variety of grapes that was originally known as the Virginia Seedling.

It is widely planted in the Midwest where it is sometimes called Cynthiana and produces a dark, inky wine with plum and cherry flavoring.

Horton Vineyards in Virginia is particularly interested in reviving the grape’s reputation.

Muscadine Wine

Another rare but interesting wine is the Muscadine wine. It was first discovered by European explorers, who found Native American vines growing along the low-lying southern coastal regions. Most Muscadine wines (red and white) are blends, usually given proprietary names by the winery (e.g., “Vintners’ Blend”), and vinified in a sweet or semisweet style. Muscadine and its blends have a unique wild and musky aroma and flavor.

Centurion Wine

Centurion is an uncommon wine that hasn’t yet seen widespread acceptance. This wine was developed at the U.C. Davis campus by crossing Cabernet Sauvignon, with Grenache and Carignane. The intention was to produce a Cabernet-like wine which could be grown in the relatively hot Central Valley. Even with its limited exposure to wine lovers, is a definite improvement over traditional Central Valley varieties.

Roussanne

Roussanne probably gets its name from the light-brownish russet cast of its ripe berries. The aroma is not as overtly fruity as some types and can suggest wild flowers or herbal tea. Unlike most white wines, Roussanne ages very well due to its unusual combination of richness and crisp acids.

Marsanne

Marsanne, this wine sometimes uses Roussane as a blending partner. It makes wines that are medium dry, full bodied and very rich in flavor with notes of spice and pear. It is a very deep-colored wine that is fairly full bodied to the point of being described sometimes as waxy.

These wines may be uncommon but they are all excellent wines in their own right. I’m sure you will appreciate their fine tastes.