Everything About Frontenac Grape
"fron-teh-NAK" 
Frontenac Description
Origin: University of Minnesota, United States
History: Frontenac is an interspecific hybrid grapevine developed by the University of Minnesota. It was created in 1978 by crossing the French hybrid Landot Noir with a selection of Vitis riparia, a native North American grape species known for its cold hardiness. Frontenac was officially released in 1996 and has since become a cornerstone for cold-climate viticulture, particularly in the Upper Midwest and northeastern United States, as well as in Canada.
Appearance: Small, bluish-black berries forming loose clusters, contributing to its resistance to certain fungal diseases.
Growing Traits: Frontenac is a vigorous and productive vine, known for its exceptional cold hardiness, surviving temperatures as low as -35°F (-37°C). It is highly resistant to downy mildew and moderately resistant to powdery mildew and botrytis. The grape exhibits high acidity and sugar levels, which can pose challenges in winemaking but also offer versatility in producing various wine styles.
Food Pairing Frontenac's rich fruit flavors and balanced structure make it an excellent match for grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Its high acidity allows it to pair well with tomato-based dishes and barbecued fare. The wine's versatility also complements chocolate desserts, especially when crafted in a fortified, port-style version.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Medium to full-bodied with a robust and fruit-forward profile, showcasing its rich dark fruit flavors and balanced structure. Typically dry, though semi-sweet and fortified versions exist, highlighting its versatility. Moderate tannin levels, providing structure and aging potential. High acidity, contributing to its freshness and suitability for various wine styles, including dry red, rosé, and fortified wines. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 12% and 14%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Black Cherry 
Plum 
Blackberry 
Spice 
Chocolate Frontenac wines are characterized by bold and concentrated flavors of black cherry, plum, and blackberry, complemented by spicy undertones and hints of chocolate. The high acidity provides a lively and refreshing finish, while moderate tannins offer structure, making it suitable for both early consumption and short-term aging.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•Minnesota
•Wisconsin
•Iowa
•New York
![[object Object] Region](/regions/canada.png)
Canada
•Quebec
•Ontario
Notable Wines and Producers
Frontenac Reserve
•Saint Croix Vineyards
Frontenac Rosé
•Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery
Frontenac Port-Style
•Carlos Creek Winery
Frontenac FAQ
University of Minnesota, United States
Frontenac has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Frontenac is Moderate to Full bodied.
Frontenac has a dryness level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Frontenac is Semi-Dry.
University of Minnesota, United States
Frontenac is grown in United States (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, New York)Canada (Quebec, Ontario).
Frontenac wines are characterized by bold and concentrated flavors of black cherry, plum, and blackberry, complemented by spicy undertones and hints of chocolate. The high acidity provides a lively and refreshing finish, while moderate tannins offer structure, making it suitable for both early consumption and short-term aging.
Frontenac's rich fruit flavors and balanced structure make it an excellent match for grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Its high acidity allows it to pair well with tomato-based dishes and barbecued fare. The wine's versatility also complements chocolate desserts, especially when crafted in a fortified, port-style version.
Frontenac wines are characterized by bold and concentrated flavors of black cherry, plum, and blackberry, complemented by spicy undertones and hints of chocolate. The high acidity provides a lively and refreshing finish, while moderate tannins offer structure, making it suitable for both early consumption and short-term aging.