Auxerrois
Also known as: Auxerrois Blanc, Pinot Auxerrois
Auxerrois
Quick Facts
- Berry Color: Green-yellow
- Skin Thickness: Medium
- Ripening: Early to mid-season
- Vigor: Moderate
- Yield: Moderate to high
- Character: Soft, round, low-acid
- Relation: Close to Pinot Blanc (often confused)
Overview
Auxerrois is a member of the Pinot family historically grown in Alsace, Lorraine, and Luxembourg, producing soft, round white wines with lower acidity than most Alsatian varieties. Often blended with or mistaken for Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois contributes body and softness to Alsace white blends and serves as an important component in Crémant d’Alsace. The variety’s approachable character makes it ideal for everyday drinking and sparkling wine production. For enologists, Auxerrois represents study in low-acid white wine production and the subtle distinctions within the Pinot family.
Etymology and History
Name Origin
Auxerrois: From Auxerre (Burgundy town)
Connection: Historical but misleading; not from Auxerre
Historical Development
- Traditional Alsace/Lorraine variety
- Often confused with Pinot Blanc
- Important Luxembourg variety
- Modern: Distinct variety recognition
- Growing clarity about identity
Identity Clarification
Confusion: Long mixed with Pinot Blanc
DNA: Distinct variety (Pinot family)
Labeling: Often combined as “Pinot Blanc”
Viticulture
Vine Characteristics
Growth Habit: Moderate vigor
Leaf Shape: Similar to Pinot family
Cluster: Small to medium; compact
Berry: Small; round; green-yellow
Growing Requirements
Climate: Cool; continental
Soil Preference: Limestone, marl
Training: Various Alsatian methods
Adaptability: Wide range of sites
Phenological Stages
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Bud break | Mid-April |
| Flowering | Late May |
| Véraison | Early August |
| Harvest | September (mid-season) |
Wine Profile
Appearance
- Color: Pale to medium straw
- Intensity: Light to medium
- Evolution: Best young
Aromatic Profile
Primary Aromas:
- Stone fruit (peach, apricot)
- Apple
- Light floral
- Subtle honey
Character: Soft; round; unobtrusive
Palate Characteristics
Structure:
- Medium body
- Low acidity (softer than Pinot Blanc)
- Rounded texture
- Easy-drinking
Texture: Soft; plush; smooth
Finish: Short to medium; gentle
Regional Expressions
Alsace
Status: Often blended with Pinot Blanc
Labeling: “Pinot Blanc” may contain Auxerrois
Role: Body; softness in blends
Luxembourg
Importance: Significant variety
Style: Fresh; everyday
Character: Local identity
Germany
Presence: Limited; Baden area
England
Growing: Cool climate adaptation
Winemaking Considerations
Fermentation
Temperature: Cool to moderate
Duration: Standard
Vessel: Stainless steel typical
Goal: Preserve freshness; soft texture
Low Acidity Management
Character: Naturally soft
Approach: Early harvest for freshness
Blending: Often with higher-acid varieties
Crémant Production
Role: Important base
Contribution: Body; roundness
Partners: Pinot Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay
Blending with Pinot Blanc
Traditional: Often combined
Auxerrois: Adds body; softness
Pinot Blanc: Adds structure; acidity
Food Pairing
Matches
Cuisine:
- Light dishes
- Fresh cheese
- Alsatian tarte flambée
- Simple preparations
Character: Versatile; unobtrusive
Temperature
Serving: Well-chilled (8-10°C)
Key Producers
Alsace
Various Alsace estates: Quality producers
Often unlabeled: Within Pinot Blanc
Luxembourg
Various producers: Regional importance
Market Position
Production Statistics
Alsace: ~2,500 hectares combined (with Pinot Blanc)
Luxembourg: Significant
Trend: Stable
Pricing
| Level | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Entry | €6-12 |
| Quality | €12-20 |
Market Position
Role: Everyday wine; Crémant base
Challenge: Identity confusion
Strength: Approachability; versatility
Comparison with Pinot Blanc
| Characteristic | Auxerrois | Pinot Blanc |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | Lower | Higher |
| Body | Fuller | Lighter |
| Character | Soft, round | Crisp, clean |
The Identity Question
Historical Confusion
Past: Often sold together
Labeling: “Pinot Blanc” = either/both
Modern: Increasing distinction
DNA Reality
Status: Distinct varieties
Family: Both Pinot family members
Difference: Subtle but real
Conclusion
Auxerrois represents the softer side of Alsatian white wine production—a variety that contributes body and roundness whether labeled on its own or blended with Pinot Blanc. For enologists, Auxerrois demonstrates the importance of understanding subtle varietal differences within grape families and the role of low-acid varieties in blending and sparkling wine production. While often overshadowed by more famous Alsatian varieties, Auxerrois fills an important niche for approachable, everyday wines and quality Crémant production.
References
- Robinson, J., Harding, J., & Vouillamoz, J. (2012). “Wine Grapes.” Ecco/HarperCollins. Publisher Link
- VIVC Database. Variety Information.
Last updated: January 13, 2026