HYBRID VARIETIES

Iowa’s continental climate is better suited to cold-hardy hybrid grape varieties like Frontenac, Marquette, and La Crescent than classic vinifera grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay. Hybrids can better withstand Iowa’s extreme winter temperatures and wider summer temperature swings, while vinifera grapes struggle in this climate. Many Iowa wineries focus on hybrid reds like Frontenac, which produce wines with bramble fruit flavors and good acidity. Whites like La Crescent delivers citrus and floral notes. Vinifera from warmer regions often display more bold, concentrated fruit flavors in both reds and whites compared to the leaner, crisper hybrid styles. Tannin levels also differ – vinifera reds like Cabernet are typically more tannic, while hybrids like Marquette have softer tannins.

HYBRID GRAPES

Oak aging regimens vary too. Many vinifera see extensive oak but hybrid wines let the fruity grape character shine through with less oak influence. Don’t think of hybrid wines as inferior – they simply have a distinct, cooler-climate expression true to the Midwest terroir where they are grown. The diversity of grapes and styles is part of what makes exploring Iowa wines an interesting experience!