Blanc de Bleu wine is blue because of the addition of blueberry concentrate during the winemaking process. This unique blue color sets Blanc de Bleu apart from traditional sparkling wines and adds a visually stunning element to the wine.
To understand why Blanc de Bleu is blue, let's delve into the winemaking process. Blanc de Bleu is primarily made from Chardonnay grapes sourced from various vineyards across California. Chardonnay is a versatile grape variety known for producing crisp and refreshing white wines.
The blue color of Blanc de Bleu is achieved through the addition of blueberry concentrate. After the initial fermentation of the Chardonnay grapes, the winemakers introduce a secondary fermentation using the Charmat method. This method, also commonly used for wines like Prosecco, involves conducting the secondary fermentation in large pressurized tanks.
During this secondary fermentation, yeast and sugar are added to the wine, which produces carbon dioxide gas. The gas is trapped in the tank, creating the bubbles that give sparkling wines their effervescence. The Charmat method is known for preserving the fresh fruit flavors and aromas of the base wine.
After the secondary fermentation is complete, the wine is filtered off the lees, which are the dead yeast cells that settled at the bottom of the tank. This filtration process helps clarify the wine and remove any sediment or impurities.
The blue color in Blanc de Bleu comes from the addition of blueberry concentrate. This concentrate is made from ripe blueberries and is carefully blended into the wine to achieve the desired hue. The amount of blueberry concentrate added may vary depending on the desired intensity of the blue color.
It's important to note that the blue color in Blanc de Bleu is purely aesthetic and does not affect the taste or quality of the wine. The blueberry concentrate is primarily used to create a visually appealing and unique sparkling wine.
Blanc de Bleu's blue color adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to any occasion. It can be a conversation starter or a memorable addition to a celebration.
In my personal experience, I have found that the blue color of Blanc de Bleu adds an element of surprise and excitement when serving it to guests. The vibrant blue hue instantly catches their attention and sparks curiosity. It's a wine that stands out visually and leaves a lasting impression.
To summarize, Blanc de Bleu wine is blue due to the addition of blueberry concentrate during the winemaking process. This unique blue color adds a visually stunning element to the wine and sets it apart from traditional sparkling wines. The blueberry concentrate is carefully blended into the wine after the secondary fermentation, resulting in a vibrant and eye-catching blue hue.