Illinois Cellars Norton

Norton is a unique grape. It is the only native American grape that can make a wine that tastes like a European or California wine. Norton totally lacks the "foxy" flavors and odors associated with native American grapes.

The Norton grape has been around at least since the time of the American Revolution. Although named for a certain Dr. Norton almost all agree that he had nothing to do with the development of the grape except to get his name hung on its shingle. Norton was at one time more commonly and correctly known as the Virginia Seedling. This name is significant. It is highly likely that Norton is an incidental cross, (originating in Virginia) of a Vitis vinifera vine and a native American vine, most likely from the species Vitis cinerea.