Norton, also known as cynthiana, is king in Missouri, where it was named the official state grape in 2003. But Missouri is also home to another very important red cultivar: chambourcin. Developed by French biochemist Joannes Seyve, chambourcin became commercially available in 1963 and is now one of the world’s most popular hybrid grapes. It produces fruity reds that are often spicy, herbaceous, low in tannins and high in acidity. The following examples are food-friendly dry reds that would go with pasta and tomato sauce, barbecued chicken and ribs, burgers and ripe cheeses. These versatile wines are best enjoyed a little chilled.

Stone Hill Winery 2018 Chambourcin, MissouriBought • Total Wine & More, 90 Brentwood Promenade Court, in May for $13.99

Description • In a Wine Folly educational video about chambourcin, expert Madeline Puckett savors a whiff of a 2014 chambourcin from Hermann’s historic Stone Hill Winery. With a chomping motion, she says it makes her think of biting into a Philly cheesesteak. Although the 2018 is a later vintage, her descriptors of juicy, peppery and acidic still hold true. Aged in French and American oak for one year, this medium-bodied red has an inviting aroma of wood and dark fruit and tastes of black cherries and plums with some bakery spice.

Montelle Winery 2021 Chambourcin, Augusta, MissouriBought • Total Wine & More, 90 Brentwood Promenade Court, in May for $12.99

Description • This flavorful red comes from Montelle, which was among the Augusta wineries purchased by Naples, Florida-based Hoffmann Family of Companies in 2021 as part of its efforts to build the town and surrounding area into a national wine destination. Although the Montelle chambourcin is three years younger than the Stone Hill, it’s a bit softer and ready to drink now. It’s also a bit drier and fuller bodied. This quaffable red tastes of blackberries, black currants, a touch of anise and hints of vanilla from six months of American oak aging.