The parent grape of Chardonnay has been a topic of much research and debate in the world of wine. Through microsatellite analysis, scientists have been able to uncover the true origins of this beloved white wine grape.
It has been discovered that Chardonnay's parents are the Pinot grape and the nearly-extinct Gouais blanc. These two grape varieties were quite common in northeast France during the Middle Ages, which provides some insight into the historical development of Chardonnay.
The Pinot grape is well-known in the wine world, with several different variations such as Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Its inclusion as one of Chardonnay's parent grapes is intriguing, as it offers a possible explanation for the long-standing misidentification of Chardonnay as the “white Pinot”.
Gouais blanc, on the other hand, is a grape variety that is nearly extinct today. However, it was widely planted in the past and was known for its vigorous growth and high yields. It was often used as a blending grape, and its inclusion as one of Chardonnay's parents suggests that it may have contributed to Chardonnay's ability to thrive in various climates and produce high-quality wines.
The discovery of Chardonnay's parentage has shed new light on its characteristics and its place in the wine world. Understanding its origins helps us appreciate the unique qualities that Chardonnay possesses and why it has become such a beloved and widely planted grape variety.
Personally, as a sommelier and brewer, I find this information fascinating. It adds another layer of complexity to my understanding of Chardonnay and its potential for producing a wide range of styles and flavors. It also highlights the importance of preserving and researching grape varieties that may be on the brink of extinction, as they can hold valuable insights into the history and development of wine.
Chardonnay's parent grapes are the Pinot grape and the nearly-extinct Gouais blanc. This discovery has provided valuable information about the origins of Chardonnay and has deepened our understanding of this iconic white wine grape.