Hybrid Grapes – Traminette and Vidal Blanc

Tonight, we are tasting and learning about two hybrid grape varieties. The first is Traminette and the second is Vidal Blanc. We are tasting a white wine blend of these two grapes. It is the Stone Hill Winery 2022 Hellbender Blanc.

First, the Traminette is a hybrid white wine grape originally bred at the University of Illinois in 1965. It is an offspring of Gewurztraminer. Like its parent, it is perfumed and spicy, but less aromatic than its parent. It is pretty versatile, but is normally made into a dry or off-dry wine. The dry wine pairs well with salmon or chili. The off-dry version pairs with spicy dishes such as Thai and curry dishes.

The second hybrid grape in our wine tonight is Vidal Blanc. This is the white-wine grape most often used for icewine, but this versatile grape can also produce dry, crisp wines. It makes a medium-bodied wine with notes of pear, honeysuckle, citrus, and candied fruit. Pairs with tomato-based dishes. Also pairs well with cheeses such as sharp Cheddars, Pecorino, or Parmigiano Reggiano.

Tonight, we are enjoying:

1. 2022 Stone Hill Winery Hellbender Blanc. I purchased from the winery for $15. A fresh and bright white blend with pleasant acidity. Notes of orange blossoms, citrus, green apple, peach, and apricot. Also has notes of minerality and lemongrass. Medium-bodied wine with 13% alcohol and 0.9% residual sugar.

We both liked this wine, but didn't love it. We rated it a three. If you like an aromatic wine, you should give it a try.

Next week, we are having a wine cocktails show.