Grenache Blanc

White grape variety

Origin

This variety is the white mutation of Grenache and was originally found primarily in the provinces of Barcelona and Tarragona, Spain.

Synonyms

In Spain, Grenache Blanc is officially called “Garnacha blanca”. This synonym is officially recognized in France regarding plant propagation material.

Phenology

Budburst period: 4 days after the Chasselas variety.
Ripening period: 2nd period, 3 and a half weeks after the Chasselas variety.

Technological potential

The clusters are large, while the berries are medium-sized. Grenache Blanc is used for the production of natural sweet wines, but it also yields interesting dry white wines that are long on the palate, with a rich, full-bodied quality, though sometimes lacking in acidity.

Agronomic characteristics

This variety is less sensitive to coulure than Grenache and has a slightly earlier cycle.
It tolerates wind well, has an upright growth habit, and is perfectly adapted to drought conditions (gravelly, stony soils).
Grenache Blanc, like other Grenache varieties, easily shows symptoms of magnesium deficiency.