Vitis vinifera Bianca - Grape vine

The 'Bianca' vine is a very vigorous variety. It produces medium-sized, cylindrical, winged clusters, more or less compact. The berries are medium-sized and spherical. Their skin is thick, yellowish-green to golden yellow. The flesh is crisp and sweet. Harvest takes place in late September and October depending on the region. The Bianca vine is moderately susceptible to diseases. It is cultivated even in the far north of Europe.

The wine grape (Vitis vinifera) grew wild over 5000 years ago. Its introduction to France for cultivation was done by the Romans. Many hybrids have been created to vary colours, flavours, and uses. The 'Bianca' vine is a variety resulting from a cross-breeding: '12375 Seyve-Villard' x 'Le Bouvier' (an Austrian grape variety). It was obtained in 1963 in Hungary by Csizmazia Jozsef and Bereznailazlo.

A vigorous sarmentous bush, the 'Bianca' vine can reach up to 5 m (16ft). It is preferable to prune it long. Its final shape will depend on the pruning method used. It is indifferent to soil type, not demanding, and even prefers dry, poor, and rocky soil. The vine can cling to its support (trellis, espalier, etc.) thanks to its large green tendrils and thrives in sunny locations. Fairly resistant to diseases, this variety is well-suited for amateur gardens due to its low maintenance requirements. Its finely cut foliage is a deep green in summer and turns a beautiful gold in autumn. Its flowering in clusters occurs in May, with very small white-pink flowers. Its table grapes ripen in late September, depending on the region. The berries are medium-sized and spherical. Their skin is thick, yellowish-green to golden yellow. The flesh is crisp and sweet. In wine, Bianca has aromas of apricot, peaches, and floral notes.

Grapes can be consumed as fresh table fruit, but also used for making jam, jelly, fruit juice, pastries, and of course, wine.