The St. Laurent
Grape
A red grape variety that is closely related to Pinot Noir, producing wines with a similar, though typically darker and more robust, profile. St. Laurent offers flavors of dark cherries, blackberries, and spices, with velvety tannins and an elegant structure, primarily grown in Austria and parts of Eastern Europe.
St. Laurent
Grape History
St. Laurent is a lesser-known red wine grape variety that has a rich history and intriguing characteristics. Believed to have originated in France or possibly Austria, it is often considered a sibling of Pinot Noir due to their genetic similarities. The grape is named after the Saint Lawrence River, and its cultivation dates back centuries.
St. Laurent is known for producing elegant and aromatic wines with rich flavors of dark fruits, spice, and floral notes. It is capable of producing wines with excellent aging potential, developing complex flavors and intriguing nuances over time. The grape is a bit more robust than Pinot Noir, with firmer tannins and higher acidity, making it a versatile grape for winemakers.
While St. Laurent is primarily grown in Austria, particularly in the Thermenregion and Burgenland regions, it is also found in parts of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. In recent years, interest in this grape variety has been growing, with plantings increasing in regions outside of its traditional European homeland.
St. Laurent is often used to make varietal wines, showcasing the grape's unique characteristics and flavor profile. It is also blended with other grapes, such as Pinot Noir or Zweigelt, to add complexity and depth to the final wine. The grape is suitable for producing a range of wine styles, from light and fruity to more full-bodied and structured wines.
In terms of the projected future of St. Laurent, it is likely to gain more recognition and popularity in the global wine market. As consumers seek out unique and distinctive wine varieties, St. Laurent's complex flavors and aging potential make it an attractive option for both wine enthusiasts and winemakers. Additionally, as climate change continues to impact traditional wine-growing regions, St. Laurent's ability to thrive in cooler climates may make it a valuable asset in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Overall, St. Laurent is a grape variety with a fascinating history, promising future, and immense potential to produce exceptional wines that captivate the palates of wine lovers around the world.