Verdanel

Verdanel is a white grape variety from South West France, namely the region of Tarn, where the famous Gaillac wines are also produced. It's nearly extincs, as it has not been widely replanted after phylloxera in the 19th century, with only 0.1ha registered today. It is early budding and mid-ripening.

White grape variety, with medium acidity and flavours of white flowers and seeded fruit.

South-West france, has a rich heritage of viticulture, yet it has always been overshadowed by Bordeaux to the North and the Languedoc region to the East. It's now considered an upcoming region for French wines, driven by diversity in varieties and styles. The affordable prices of the vineyards and estates, means many young winemakers are heading there creating an exciting atmosphere. The climate is cool and oceanic, with frequent rainfalls making it ideal for crisp, acid-driven white wines.

Verdanel is championed by one producer, who focuses on reviving old varieties, who produces both dry and sweet wines from it.