Bread has played an essential role in human history, but not all bread is created equal. At A Bread Affair, we believe that the flour we use is the cornerstone of an extraordinary loaf. This belief led us to the remarkable story of Marquis Wheat, a Canadian heritage grain with a unique past and exceptional baking qualities.
Marquis Wheat emerged as a solution to a significant problem faced by early settlers in the Canadian West. The wheat varieties thriving in Ontario were ill-suited for the cooler, shorter growing seasons of the prairies. Farmers needed a variety that could withstand these harsher conditions while still producing high-quality flour. In 1904, this quest led to the creation of Marquis Wheat at the Dominion Agricultural Research Station in Agassiz, BC. This new variety, a hybrid of Indian wheat, Hard Red Calcutta, and Red Fife, quickly became a favourite among farmers due to its resilience and superior baking qualities.
However, with the advent of World War II and advances in plant hybridization, Marquis Wheat was overshadowed by newer, higher-yielding strains. Many unique qualities of traditional wheat varieties were altered to boost crop yields. In 2009, we discovered a few rare seeds of the original Marquis Wheat strain preserved in the archives of the Canadian Central Experimental Farm. Intrigued by its legendary attributes, we became captivated by the idea of reviving this nearly forgotten grain. This led to the creation of our True Love Marquis Loaf, an homage to a time when bread was made with love and heritage grains.
Rediscovering Marquis Wheat
Marquis Wheat holds a special place in Canadian history. Developed in the early 1900s, it was a revolutionary solution to the challenges faced by farmers in the Canadian prairies. The wheat varieties common in Ontario couldn’t handle the shorter growing seasons and cold climates of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. In 1904, a hybrid wheat, Marquis Wheat, was created at the Dominion Agricultural Research Station in Agassiz, BC. This new strain combined early-ripening Indian wheat, Hard Red Calcutta, and Red Fife, making it resilient and suitable for Canadian conditions. Marquis Wheat quickly became the preferred grain for farmers due to its adaptability and amazing baking qualities.
Despite its success, advancements in plant hybridization after World War II led to Marquis Wheat being pushed aside in favour of higher-yielding strains. These new varieties focused on quantity over quality, altering the unique characteristics of traditional wheat. By the late 20th century, Marquis Wheat had almost disappeared.
In 2009, a rare discovery reignited interest in this heritage grain. A few seeds of the original 1904 Marquis Wheat strain were found in the archives of the Canadian Central Experimental Farm. These seeds were preserved by the Alberta Garden Conservancy. Captivated by the legendary qualities of this wheat, we decided to revive it and use it to create exceptional artisan bread. Our journey to bring back Marquis Wheat is a testament to our commitment to quality and tradition in baking.
The Unique Qualities of Marquis Wheat
Marquis Wheat is celebrated for its outstanding baking qualities. Its unique composition creates a strong, elastic dough that rises beautifully and produces a loaf with excellent texture and flavour. The natural fermentation of Marquis Wheat flour enhances its taste, giving the bread a rich, nutty profile with a slightly sweet finish. This wheat’s protein content and gluten structure contribute to its superior baking performance, making it ideal for crafting artisan bread.
Compared to modern wheat varieties, Marquis Wheat stands out due to its traditional qualities that haven’t been altered by recent hybridization techniques. Modern wheat strains are often engineered for higher yields and disease resistance, but these changes can compromise flavour and nutritional value. Marquis Wheat, with its heritage genetic makeup, offers a wholesome and authentic baking experience that is harder to find in commercial wheat.
Baking with Marquis Wheat also means using flour that aligns with the principles of slow food and sustainable agriculture. It supports biodiversity and brings back the rich heritage of farming practices from the past. Choosing bread made from Marquis Wheat is a celebration of history, flavour, and responsible farming.
Reviving Heritage Grains in Artisan Baking
At A Bread Affair, we take pride in using heritage grains like Marquis Wheat to craft our artisan bread. We believe in preserving the traditional baking techniques that honour the grain’s natural properties. This means slow fermentation and minimal processing, allowing the unique qualities of Marquis Wheat to shine. Our commitment to authenticity and quality ensures that every loaf of True Love Marquis is a product of passion and expertise.
The benefits of using heritage grains like Marquis Wheat are numerous. These grains are often more nutritious than modern varieties, which have been bred primarily for higher yields at the expense of nutritional value. Heritage grains retain more of their original fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthier choice. They also add richness to the flavour and texture of the bread, offering a more satisfying and wholesome eating experience. Embracing these grains supports biodiversity and promotes sustainable farming practices, keeping the soil and ecosystem in balance.
Why Choose the True Love Marquis Loaf?
There are plenty of reasons to try the True Love Marquis Loaf. First, its rich flavour and exceptional texture set it apart from other breads. The unique qualities of Marquis Wheat give it a nutty, slightly sweet taste that you won’t find in standard wheat breads. Each slice is a rare treat that combines tradition and taste.
Here are some tips to enjoy the True Love Marquis Loaf:
1. Perfect Pairings: Enjoy it with fresh butter or artisanal cheeses. The flavours complement each other wonderfully.
2. Toasting: Toast the slices for a crispy, golden exterior that enhances the flavour.
3. Sandwiches: Use it as a base for gourmet sandwiches. The sturdy crust holds up well to a variety of fillings.
4. Storage: Keep it in a paper bag at room temperature to maintain its freshness for longer.
Conclusion
The True Love Marquis Loaf is more than just bread; it’s a celebration of heritage and quality. By reviving Marquis Wheat, we pay homage to a grain that played a crucial role in Canadian agriculture. Its unique qualities and rich history make it a standout choice for those who appreciate artisan baking.
Choosing the True Love Marquis Loaf means indulging in a product that combines tradition, flavour, and nutrition. It’s a testament to our commitment to preserving the art of bread-making. Explore the full range of our heritage grain products and taste the difference that quality ingredients make.
Don’t miss the chance to savour a slice of history. Stop your search for the “best heritage grain bread near me,” Visit A Bread Affair today and experience the unique taste of our True Love Marquis Loaf. Discover the difference that heritage grains can make in your daily bread. Taste true love in every bite!
