Let’s chat grapes, shall we?
In the intricate world of viticulture, the terms hybrid grapes, crossings, and grape parents often crop up, each playing a unique role in the creation of the wines we love. To appreciate the nuanced flavors and characteristics in your glass, it helps to understand the differences between these terms. Let’s delve into each concept, using well-known wine grape examples to illustrate these fascinating aspects of grape breeding.
Hybrid Grapes: Bridging Species
Hybrid grapes are the result of crossing two different species of grapes, typically involving at least one Vitis vinifera parent (the primary species used for wine production) and another species such as Vitis labrusca or Vitis riparia. The goal of creating hybrid grapes is often to combine desirable traits from both parent species, such as disease resistance, cold tolerance, or unique flavors.
Example: Vidal Blanc Vidal Blanc is a hybrid grape created by crossing Vitis vinifera and Vitis riparia – Ugni blanc and Rayon d’Or. It is known for its ability to withstand cold climates, making it a popular choice in regions like Canada and the northeastern United States. Vidal Blanc produces aromatic, fruity wines and is famously used in the production of Icewine.
868 Estate Vineyards in Virginia makes a Vidal Blanc passito that won the Virginia Governor’s Cup in 2020.
Crossings: The Vinifera Variety Combinations
Crossings, unlike hybrids, involve the crossing of two Vitis vinifera grapes. This process combines characteristics from two vinifera parents to create a new grape variety.
This Article was originally published on History and Wine
