As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Auxerrois and Pinot Blanc are two distinct grape varieties. While they may be treated together in some instances, it is important to understand that legally, the term “Pinot Blanc” includes Auxerrois, but not the other way around.
Auxerrois and Pinot Blanc may often be found together because many wines labeled as Pinot Blanc are actually made entirely from Auxerrois grapes. This can be a bit confusing for consumers who assume that Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois are the same.
To delve into the details, Auxerrois is a white grape variety that is believed to have originated in the Alsace region of France. It is a mutation of Pinot Noir, which is why it shares some similarities in terms of flavor profile and characteristics. Auxerrois is known for its crisp acidity, delicate aromas, and flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus.
On the other hand, Pinot Blanc is also a white grape variety, but it is a genetic mutation of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. It is considered to be a full sibling of Chardonnay. Pinot Blanc tends to have a slightly fuller body compared to Auxerrois, with flavors of stone fruits, melon, and sometimes a touch of floral notes.
The confusion arises because, in some wine regions, regulations allow wines labeled as Pinot Blanc to be made from either Pinot Blanc or Auxerrois grapes. This means that a wine labeled as Pinot Blanc could be 100% Pinot Blanc, 100% Auxerrois, or a blend of the two. However, wines labeled as Auxerrois are generally made exclusively from Auxerrois grapes.
From a personal standpoint, I have come across wines labeled as Pinot Blanc that were made solely from Auxerrois grapes. In these cases, the wines tend to showcase the characteristics of Auxerrois, with its bright acidity and fruity flavors. It is always interesting to taste these wines and appreciate the unique qualities of Auxerrois.
While Auxerrois and Pinot Blanc may be treated together in some instances, they are not the same grape variety. The term Pinot Blanc legally encompasses Auxerrois, but not vice versa. It is important to be aware of this distinction when exploring wines labeled as Pinot Blanc, as they may be made entirely from Auxerrois grapes.