The Difference Between a Norton & a Cabernet

Red wine is a type of wine made from dark-colored grape varieties. The actual color of the wine can vary from intense violet to a brick red or even a brownish color depending on the age. There are hundreds of varieties of red wine grapes and each produces a different flavor profile. Two of the most popular red wines you'll find here in Missouri are Cabernet and Norton. So what exactly is the difference between the two? Seven Springs Winery has the scoop!

Cabernet

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world's most widely recognized red wine grape varieties. It is grown worldwide in nearly every wine producing country. The popularity is often attributed to its ease of cultivation. The grapes have thick skins and the vines are rot and frost resistant. Cabernet Franc is one of the major black grape varieties, also worldwide. It is principally grown for use in Bordeaux style blends, but is also made into a stand-alone wine. DNA analysis places Cabernet Franc as one of the parents, along with Sauvignon Blanc, of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon and contributes finesse and a peppery aroma when blended with more robust grapes. Depending on the growing region and style of wine, additional aromas can include tobacco, raspberry, bell pepper, cassis and sometimes even violets.

Norton

Norton is a grape believed to be largely derived from Vitis Aestivalis. It is grown in the Midwestern and Mid-Atlantic United States, as well as northeastern Georgia. The Norton grape variety maintains high levels of malic acid and phenolic acids in the ripening berries when compared to those of Cabernet Sauvignon. Furthermore, Norton berries develop a remarkably high level of resistance to most fungal pathogens, while Cabernet Sauvignon berries remain susceptible to those pathogens. Norton grapes produce a rich, full-bodied red wine. It shows both red and black fruits on the nose and palate and a unique, but intriguing flavor profile. You'll find it soft on first taste, but firming up with a good core of acidity in the finish. The Norton is the official grape of the State of Missouri and is a favorite among visitors of our Lake of the Ozarks winery.

Stop by and try a glass of Seven Springs Winery Norton today! Our winery at the Lake of the Ozarks is open from 11 AM - 7 PM and offers wine tasting daily. The winery sits atop 160 acres of rolling Missouri foothills between Camdenton and Osage Beach, and is just a 10 minute drive from either location. Eat, drink and be merry at Seven Springs Winery!

Come for the wine...Stay for the atmosphere...Remember the view! 

Seven Springs is the finest Winery at the Lake of the Ozarks with a full service facility perfect for outdoor weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and parties.  Call us today to make reservations for your special event!

Seven Springs Winery

573.317.0100

846 Winery Hills Estates

Linn Creek, MO 65052

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