What do Belle Blanc wines from Lodi, California and wines from Chateauneuf du Pape in France have in common? Are they completely different? Basically, you would think they would be totally different. Correct?
You may be familiar with the wines of the Rhone Valley in France. Typically, the area of Chateauneuf du Pape is most likely to come to mind. When thinking about those wines, you may automatically think of red wines. You wouldn’t be wrong.
The Chateauneuf du Pape French wine appellation, well known for the Grenache-based red wine blends. Accordingly, different flavors range from savory to slightly sweeter. Different vine locations make the tastes evolve. In addition, the vintage of the wines is also important. What do they taste like?
Typically, the tastes might include the following flavors or nuances of flavors:
- Raspberry
- Plummy fruits
- Dusted leather
- Lavender
But what if we’re talking about white wines? Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is much harder to find. Why? Because only 7% or less of the region’s vineyards have white grapes.
However, only six white grape varieties are the only ones that can be planted. What are they?
They are the following:
- Grenache Blanc
- Clairette
- Roussanne
- Bourboulenc
- Picpoul
- Picardan
Grenache Blanc is a mutation of Grenache noir. Because of that, it is one of the most commonly used grape variety.
If you are looking for these white wines, where would you find the Chateauneuf du Pape region? It is located almost at the bottom end of the Rhone Valley, between the cities of Orange and Avignon, close to Provence. Because, the hills are steep and the soil is pebbly and sandy this is perfect soil for growing these types of grapes.
Now, move to California. This is where Susan Tipton and Acquiesce Winery of California shine. Located in the Lodi AVA is Acquiesce Winery, with Susan as the winemaker and owner. Because of her passion and experiences in France, she sourced and planted the best vines from the Chateau de Beaucastel of Chateauneuf du Pape.
Belle Blanc 2020, Acquiesce Winery’s homage to white Chateauneuf du Pape, reminded me of silky pears and apricots. Yet, it was not too fruity or sweet. Because of this, it is now a favorite to drink any time of the year.
What would we serve with Belle Blanc?
- Salmon with a spicy pepper sauce
- Spinach salad with strawberries
- Pork loin with tangy orange glaze
With enough acid in the wine, the flavor rounds out in your mouth. Anything slightly fatty or a butter-based sauce would also pair well with Belle Blanc as it can stand up to just about anything.
What grapes are Acquiesce Belle Blanc made from? Following are the included grapes:
- Roussanne, 50%
- Grenache Blanc, 30%
- Bourboulenc, 20%
Remember the grapes grown in Chateauneuf du Pape? Now you know why the Belle Blanc from Lodi has similar characteristics to those from France.
Facts about Acquiesce Winery:
- The 2021 Belle Blanc won Double Gold from the International Women’s Wine Competition
- The 2021 Belle Blanc won a Gold Medal from the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition
- Specifically, Acquiesce grapes are handpicked and immediately whole-cluster pressed to capture their flavor
Facts about Chateauneuf du Pape:
- Chateauneuf du Pape was the first French wine appellation, in 1936
- There are 7,746 acres of vineyards in the region
- In addition, almost 75% of the vineyards in Chateauneuf du Pape are dedicated to Grenache
- Vineyards are not allowed to be watered unless granted permission from the French government
Next time you are looking for a white wine to pair with dinner, try the Belle Blanc from Acquiesce Winery. When Belle Blanc hits your mouth, you are in for a treat.
Check out more about wines from Acquiesce.