Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Red Wines Made From Concord Grapes

The Concord grape is a large dark-blue grape native to North America.


The Concord grape, considered a robust and aromatic grape, was developed from a wild native species growing in the rugged New England soil. Called America's original dessert wine, Concord is famous for its classic sweetness. Low in sugar content, concord wines tend toward the sweet side as a sugar base must be added during fermentation for the alcohol to develop, making it perfect for an after-dinner sipping wine. Retaining the grape skins during fermentation develops the concord wine's signature deep red color.


Semi-Dry


The semi-dry Concord wine is considered a nice pair with beef, pasta and Mexican cuisine or salty cheese, salads, and light meals. The semi-dry may be served at room temperature or slightly chilled.


Semi-Sweet








Semi-sweet Concord wines retain the bold aroma of the Concord grape with a hint of fruity flavor to balance the "foxy" taste that to some is an acquired taste. The semi-sweet is a nice compromise to the exceptional sweetness of the sweet Concord.








Sweet


Sweet Concord wines are usually considered after-dinner dessert wines, having a fresh fruity flavor and unusually aggressive sweetness. The majority of Concord wines fall into the sweet category, going well with aged, blue, and creamy cheeses and desserts.

Tags: Concord grape, Concord wines, during fermentation, fruity flavor