The Vidal grape, a hybrid white wine variety, holds a special place in vineyards both for its resilience and its ability to produce significantly high-quality wine. Renowned for its versatility, this grape is a primary component in the production of a wide range of wines, from dry to sweet, including the globally acclaimed ice wine.
Vidal grape was created by Jean Louis Vidal in the mid-20th century, passionately working in France to combine the Ugni Blanc and Rayon d'Or varieties. Its goal was to produce a grape that could withstand the rigours of distillation for the making of Cognac. Little did Vidal realise his creation would bloom in the colder climes of North America and Europe.
The uniquely heart-shaped leaf is an enduring emblem of the Vidal grape vine. Elegant with high acidity, this grape has compact clusters that are resistant to various diseases. This resilience makes Vidal grape ideal for extreme climates, notably the frosty winters in Canada, where it has earned a reputation for producing some of the most exquisite ice wines in the world.
Vidal grapes have a rich and complex flavour profile, often with bright citrus notes. In the case of ice wine, freezing temperatures concentrate sugars, acids, and flavours, resulting in an intensely sweet and fruity wine with notes of tropical fruits, honey, and preserved lemon.
Apart from Canada, Vidal grapes are also grown in the United States, specifically in regions around the Great Lakes, and the cooler areas of the United Kingdom. Despite being a grape of French origin, the Vidal’s resilience, usability, and delightful taste profile make it more appealing to winemakers in colder climates, indeed a testament to its versatility and undoubted quality.
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