Blanc du Bois: Texas’ Unique White Grape
Texan wine made from the Blanc du Bois grape has become increasingly popular in recent years. There’s something extraordinary about this grape – can we pinpoint what makes it so extraordinary? What can you expect when you pour yourself a glass? It is the toast of Texas, and is bringing people together with its tantalizing flavors and booming popularity why is Blanc du Bois Texas’ Unique white grape – what’s the magic behind this instant hit?
A History of Blanc du Bois in Texas
Blanc du Bois might seem like a French name, and that’s because it partially is. Developed in 1968 at the University of Florida, this hybrid grape gets its name from one of its parent grapes, the Folle Blanche varietal. This white French wine grape was once a dominant variety in the Cognac
What is Cognac? Definition: Cognac is a ... More region but was nearly wiped out in the 1890s due to a deadly infestation of phylloxera.
Texas gave this lagging varietal a lifeline, its vineyards helping restore the honor it once held. Texas takes pride in its plum-perfect climate for Blanc du Bois cultivation. Texas has become its spiritual home, with some even referring to Blanc du Bois as the state grape of Texas (even though it technically belongs to Black Spanish).
There is one small problem. Even though the state boasts multiple award-winning wineries, many aren’t aware of how perfectly Blanc du Bois grows in Texas and the wine quality that it produces. From here to there, its flavorful vintages are spilling onto the scene, landing prominent shelf space in wineries and tasting rooms alike. For instance, Texas vineyards like Bernhardt Winery, located in the heart of Texas Wine Country, feature the Blanc du Bois grape in several of its signature bottles, alongside more familiar grapes like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. William Chris Winery in Hye Texas in the famous Texas Hill Country AVA
What is the true meaning of Appellation?... More also makes wines from the Blanc du Bois grape having realized its quality potential.
Disease Resistance
Texas weather, with its hot and humid climate, often presents challenges for many grape varieties. This is one of the main reasons why Blanc du Bois Texas has gained such a stronghold in the area. It’s much more disease-resistant to problems such as Pierce’s disease and downy mildew than many thin-skinned vinifera varieties.
Texas winemakers have a soft spot for Blanc du Bois, which boasts an impressive track record of weathering challenging growing conditions with ease where it is uncommon that the fruit rots. Texas wine drinkers have fallen head over heels for this varietal and it shows in the wide range of wines being crafted.
Blanc du Bois Characteristics
What can you expect from this hybrid grape’s flavor profile? First, Blanc du Bois Texas is known for its vibrant acidity and complex aromatic profile. Imagine a juicy pineapple, a slice of orange, and a sprinkle of zest all blended with bright floral aromas – that’s the description of this wine, it is made to shine on Texas’s sultry days.
You might notice distinct hints of grapefruit and lime with subtle floral aromas and nuances of green apple and pear. This wine’s a real chameleon – it can hold its own alongside everything from spicy apps to rich entrees.
But be aware that flavors of a Blanc du Bois Texas wine can vary greatly based on where the grapes are grown and the chosen winemaking process which will affect the wine quality potential.
Blanc du Bois vs Sauvignon Blanc
People often compare Blanc du Bois to Sauvignon Blanc. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer gathering, these two revitalizing white wines with vibrant acidity will be the life of the party. But if you put a glass of each side-by-side, their flavor profiles will stand out.
| Characteristic | Blanc du Bois | Sauvignon Blanc |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Tropical fruit (pineapple, mango), citrus (grapefruit), floral notes | Citrus (lime, grapefruit), grassy notes, herbal hints (green bell pepper) |
| Flavor Profile | High acidity, notes of green apple, pear, citrus, sometimes a subtle sweetness | Crisp acidity, notes of gooseberry, passionfruit, white peach, a herbaceous quality |
| Body | Light to Medium | Light to Medium |
| Sweetness Level | Typically dry, but some can have a slightly sweet finish | Typically dry |
While you can find Sauvignon Blanc growing around the world, finding Blanc du Bois outside the southern United States (particularly Texas) will be tough. But many passionate vintners are quickly changing that.
Perfect Food Pairings for Blanc du Bois
You can sip on a delicious glass of Blanc du Bois all on its own but it also pairs very well with a large variety of dishes, particularly foods that highlight the region. Think light seafood dishes, spicy Cajun cuisine, and fresh salads with goat cheese.
Sometimes, simplicity wins the day. Paired with nearly anything, grapes bring a certain magic to the table, almost assuring you’ll stumble upon a new favorite combination.
The next time you find yourself at a Texas winery or browsing online for a taste of the Lone Star State, consider giving a bottle (or two.) of Blanc du Bois a try. Its refreshing flavor profile and complex aromatics offer something entirely new. Plus, when you choose a Blanc du Bois Texas wine, you’re supporting the local industry. If you love Blanc du Bois then you should consider joining a wine club that may let you enjoy complimentary wine and add a discount to your online shopping cart if you order from their website.
Conclusion
Over the past few years, there’s been a seismic shift in the way Texans and wine aficionados approach Blanc du Bois. An initial fascination with its sun-kissed aromas has blossomed into a full-blown infatuation. Expect enthusiasts from far and wide to keep thirsting for this indigenous Texan wine that defiantly puts its own stamp on the world of fine wine.
