Ives is a black grape from USA that is increasing rapidly in Brazil where it is known as Bordo.
Characteristics
Ives is a highly sensitive grape, not only for several diseases, but also for one of the most common cures (!), the sulphur based so called Bordeaux mixture. Being a Vitis Labrusca crossing, it has an odd taste that sometimes is called foxy (which has nothing to do with the animal but is a way of saying that it is odd or strange)
Wines
Historically it was used to produce a sweet wine reminding of port in the US. Today it is used to produce a uncomplicated light red table wine in Brazil, as well as both sweet and fortified wines. There are also reports that it is used for producing grape juice as well as jelly.
Food pairing
No suggestions for food pairing can be offered.
Where is it grown?
Ives is almost gone from US soil. There remains a mere 16 ha/40 ac in the state of New York. In Brazil, where it is known as Bordô, it is the second most planted grape with plantings of 8.287 ha/20,478 ac. This corresponds to an increase of one hundred forty-five percent between 2000 and 2010.
History
Ives is a crossing that has its name from its breeder, Henry Ives. It is thought to be a crossing made around 1840 between an unknown Vitis species (most likely not a Vitis Vinifera variety) and a Vitis Labrusca crossing. It has been popular in eastern United States, especially during the Prohibition.