The terms “blanc” and “white” are often used interchangeably to refer to wines that are made from white grapes. However, there are some differences in how these terms are used in certain wine regions.
In France, the term “blanc” is often used to refer to white wines that are made from specific grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier. These wines are typically named after the grape variety, followed by the term “blanc.” For example, a Chardonnay-based white wine from Burgundy might be called “Chardonnay Blanc.”
In contrast, the term “white” is a more generic term that is used to describe any wine that is made from white grapes. For example, a white wine from California might simply be called “California White Wine,” without any reference to the grape variety.
It’s also worth noting that some wine regions, particularly in Europe, use the term “blanc” to refer to white wines that are made from a blend of different grape varieties. These wines are often named after the region in which they are produced, followed by the term “blanc.” For example, a white wine from the Bordeaux region of France might be called “Bordeaux Blanc.”
In terms of taste, there is no inherent difference between a wine that is called “blanc” and one that is called “white.” The taste of a wine is determined by a variety of factors, including the grape variety, the climate and soil in which the grapes are grown, and the winemaking techniques used. Whether a wine is called “blanc” or “white” is simply a matter of regional terminology and naming conventions.
