Recommended Grape Varieties for Ontario

Grape cultivar recommendations for Ontario are based on value to the industry and overall field performance using best management practices. Market considerations are extremely important in the decision making process and growers should consult with processors and wineries prior to planting. The recommendation of grape cultivars does not take into consideration the fluctuating market demands.

General Planting

For well-known cultivars of proven field performance and industry value. Cultivars should be planted in sites with a known history of cropping and a low risk of extreme cold temperatures.

Wine - Vinifera
Auxerrois, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Gamay noir, Pinot noir, Riesling

Wine - Hybrids
Baco noir, Chambourcin, De Chaunac, Geisenheim hybrids, Maréchal Foch, Seyval blanc, SV 23-512, Vidal

Dessert
Himrod, Sovereign Coronation, Vanessa

Juice
Concord, Niagara

Limited Planting

These cultivars have industry value but should be limited in extent of plantings. Cultivars that are sensitive to extreme winter temperatures and spring frosts should not be planted in high-risk areas. Some advanced cultivars have developed from trial plantings and warrant further commercial plantings. Others may be adapted to a specific region or be useful for selected markets.

Wine - Vinifera
Cabernet Sauvignon, Gewürztraminer, Merlot, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Sauvignon blanc,

Wine - Hybrids
Villard Noir

Dessert
Canadice, Fredonia, New York Muscat, Patricia, Suffolk Red, Van Buren

Juice
Elvira

Trial Plantings

These are promising new cultivars which require further testing to establish their commercial value. These are also old cultivars from other areas of the world that might adapt to Ontario weather conditions, but whose performance history in Ontario is limited.

Wine - Vinifera
Malbec, Petit Syrah, Petit Verdot, Semillon, Viognier

Wine - Hybrids
Chardonnel, GR 7, Traminette

Dessert
Skookum

Some cultivars may be patented with trademark registered, or may be in the process of obtaining Plant Breeder's Rights. These will only be propagated under licensed agreements.