Gouais blanc

Gouais blanc (or Weißer Heunisch) is a white grape variety that is believed to have originated in Croatia and was widely cultivated in Central Europe during the Middle Ages. It is a parent of many traditional French and German grape varieties.

History

The history of Gouais blanc is deeply intertwined with the socio-economic conditions of the Middle Ages. It was often cultivated by peasantry in the Middle Ages, hence its name Gouais, derived from the old French adjective ‘gou’, a term of derision befitting its status as the grape of the peasants.

Characteristics

Gouais blanc is a highly productive vine which has the potential to produce a large crop of high acidity, fairly neutral white wine. It is largely unremarkable in terms of flavor profile, often displaying simple apple and citrus notes.

Genetic Research

Genetic research in the late 20th and early 21st century has identified Gouais blanc as a parent of a large number of well-known grape varieties. This includes Chardonnay, Gamay, Aligoté, and many others. The cross-pollination of Gouais blanc and Pinot resulted in at least 16 different varieties.

Current Status

Today, Gouais blanc is nearly extinct and is not widely grown for commercial wine production. However, some winemakers in Switzerland and France continue to grow this grape variety, often out of a sense of tradition and heritage.

See Also

• List of grape varieties
• History of wine
• French wine
• Swiss wine