Chambourcin

A French hybrid grape that is widely grown in the Shawnee Hills Region. It is also grown in the French regions of Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Very resistant to fungal diseases, Chambourcin can be grown in cooler climates, and when yields are kept low it produces spicy, fragrant red wines that are also rich and concentrated. Strict EEU guidelines against the blending of hybrid wines with that of traditional varieties has kept the Chambourcin from being much more than a table wine in France. It is very popular in the southern areas of Midwest and the Mid-Atlantic eastern states in the United States. Chambourcin is also grown in the Hunter Valley of Australia and New Zealand. Owl Creek creates four wines from Chambourcin: Owl’s Leap Reserve; Owl’s Leap; Bald Knob; and Whooo’s Blush.

Norton

A historically significant native varietal that has been producing distinct and full bodied red wines in the eastern and middle portion of the United States since the early 1800s. Norton can produce fine examples of red wine that are notably absent of the foxiness found in most native American vines.  It does have a "green" character in it youth and a distinct earthiness.  Some quality time spent in the barrel really brings out the fruit and tannins of Norton.  Owl Creek’s Owl’s Leap Reserve is a blend of Chambourcin and Norton. (This varietal is sometimes refered to as Cynthiana and is nick-named the "Cabernet of the Ozarks."

Concord

An extremely productive varietal native to New England that has taken well to cooler areas. It is widely planted in the north east, especially New York state. Best known for grape juice and jellies, the Concord is made into several styles of wine, most of which contain some residual sugar. It has a distinct foxiness (that big grape flavor) and is highly regarded by sweet wine drinkers for its simple fruit character. Owl Creek’s Ruby Red is made primarily from Concord.