Trousseau

Name of varietal: Trousseau Gris

Common synonyms: Chauche gris, Gray Riesling, Grey Riesling, Gris de Salces, Terret d'Afrique

Parentage of the grape: This is a mutation of Trousseau Noir.

History of the grape: Trousseau Noir is one of the three principle red grapes of the Jura. The Portuguese Bastardo is the same grape. There, it is part of the blend used for Port. Trousseau Gris is a mutation of this grape. This version of Trousseau never quite found its feet in the Jura, but was readily adopted in California.

In California, it is known as Gray Riesling and was once popular for its aromatic white wines. Its vineyard area declined in the 1980s, though it can still be found in some Zinfandel field blends.

A little is also grown in New Zealand.

Characteristics of the grape: Trousseau Gris can have aromas of flowers and yellow fruit that can sometimes turn tropical.

Regions where the grape currently is important: California

Type or types of wines the grape produces: Little varietal wine is now made from Trousseau Gris, but if you do encounter is, expect a crisp, aromatic white wine.