Seyval Blanc is a white hybrid grape variety that is primarily grown in England and the eastern parts of the United States, particularly in regions such as New York and Virginia, but also in Canada. It ripens early and tends to be highly resistant to frost, which makes it a highly desirable grape in cooler climates.
Although it is a hybrid variety (a cross between Seibel hybrids and Rayon d’Or), it is widely recognized for its ability to produce wines of very good quality. Seyval Blanc typically has high acidity levels and is often used to make a variety of wine styles including dry, off-dry, sweet, and sparkling wines.
Wine produced from Seyval Blanc showcases flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear, typically accompanied by mineral or floral notes. Sometimes, Seyval Blanc wines may even have some light grassy or herbal undertones.
Often, Seyval Blanc wines are compared to those produced from the Chardonnay grape, given their similar flavor profiles and the fact that Seyval Blanc wines are often vinified with techniques such as oak aging and malolactic fermentation which are also used in Chardonnay winemaking.