Benchmark for Baco Noir

Baco Noir is a hybrid red variety with origins in France. An early ripening variety, it has found a fertile home and the perfect micro-climate and growing conditions in the clay-based soils of Niagara’s Short Hills Bench. Henry of Pelham winery is truly a benchmark producer for this varietal having realized its potential many years ago and soldiered on to the present to establish and perfect it as a signature grape variety in Ontario. While other growers were taking advantage of government funded grape vine pull-out programs, owners, the Speck brothers, took a long term view and were committed to increasing plantings of “Baco”, as those in the know simply call it. Deep red and purple robed in colour, on the nose we get complex notes of sweet smoke, tobacco, dark berries and cocoa. Analytically it is dry, yet the medium body is balanced with a rich, robust lingering mouth feel. Consumers looking for something different, not just more of “same old, same old,” will find a treasure trove of enjoyment in a glass. Delicious and approachable on its own, it’s a great food wine too. Gourmet burgers, rabbit stew, eggplant lasagna are great pairings. Cheese wise, go local. Jordan Station based Upper Canada Cheese Company’s Maple Smoked Comfort Cream cheese makes a great companion with our Baco Noir and its smoky nuances.

Henry of Pelham Baco Noir VQA #270926, $15.95.