Grape Variety
Vidal-Blanc
"vee-DAL blahnk"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Vidal-Blanc
Origin
France
History
Vidal Blanc is a white hybrid grape variety developed in the 1930s by French grape breeder Jean-Louis Vidal. It was created by crossing Ugni Blanc (also known as Trebbiano) with Rayon d'Or, a winter-hardy hybrid grape. Originally intended for brandy production in the maritime climate and cold winters of western France, Vidal Blanc's thick skin and high natural acidity made it particularly well-suited for ice wine production. The grape was introduced to North America in the mid-20th century, where it has become a prominent variety in regions like Ontario, Canada, and the northeastern United States.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized, greenish-yellow berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Vidal Blanc is a vigorous vine that produces small bunches of tiny oval berries with a high skin-to-juice ratio. The grape ripens late and is well-suited to cool, dry climates. It is often grown on slopes facing the sea to benefit from additional reflected light, which enhances grape quality.
Wine Characteristics
Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
4/5
Medium to full-bodied with a rich and robust profile, offering a complex and structured palate. Typically vinified dry, highlighting its natural acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. As a white grape variety, Vidal Blanc wines have negligible tannin content, resulting in a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and vibrancy to the wine, making it particularly suitable for cool climates. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally ranging from 12.5% to 14%, depending on the winemaking style and region.
Taste Profile
Citrus
Green apple
Honey
Floral
Vidal Blanc wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and green apple. Subtle honey nuances and floral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Vidal Blanc wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
Food Pairing
Vidal Blanc's crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, such as grilled fish, shellfish, and ceviche. The wine's freshness also complements light salads, poultry dishes, and Mediterranean cuisine. Its zesty character makes it an excellent choice for pairing with dishes featuring citrus elements or herbal notes.
Growing Regions
Canada
OntarioBritish ColumbiaNova Scotia
United States
New YorkMichiganPennsylvaniaOhioRhode IslandNorth CarolinaVirginia
Notable Wines & Producers
Vidal Blanc Ice Wine
Inniskillin Winery
Peller Estates Winery
Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate
Vidal Blanc Dry Table Wine
Chateau des Charmes
Pelee Island Winery
Casa-Dea Estates Winery
Vidal-Blanc FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Vidal-Blanc?
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France
Is Vidal-Blanc wine full bodied?
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Vidal-Blanc has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Vidal-Blanc is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Vidal-Blanc wine dry or sweet?
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Vidal-Blanc has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Vidal-Blanc is Dry.
Where is Vidal-Blanc wine from?
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France
Where is Vidal-Blanc grown?
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Vidal-Blanc is grown in Canada (Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia)United States (New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Virginia).
What is Vidal-Blanc like?
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Vidal Blanc wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and green apple. Subtle honey nuances and floral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Vidal Blanc wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
What does Vidal-Blanc pair with?
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Vidal Blanc's crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, such as grilled fish, shellfish, and ceviche. The wine's freshness also complements light salads, poultry dishes, and Mediterranean cuisine. Its zesty character makes it an excellent choice for pairing with dishes featuring citrus elements or herbal notes.
What does Vidal-Blanc taste like?
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Vidal Blanc wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, and green apple. Subtle honey nuances and floral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Vidal Blanc wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
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