DNA research tells us that it is a cross between Gouais blanc and Pinot, the same ancestry as Chardonnay. The name Auxerrois blanc has actually been used as a synonym for Chardonnay in the Moselle region in France, which explains why there is also a longer name (Auxerrois Blanc de Laquenexy) for the grape variety.

Auxerrois grows well on Vancouver Island, but it’s hard to find it in reasonable quantities at the local dairies.  You have to go to the winery – such as Unsworth or the Duncan Project.  It’s like Ortega – an Island secret that only we shall know.

Most agree that the origins of the grape in BC dates back to the early 1970s when  Grey Monk brought vines here from the Alsace.

Our mini tasting consisted of Gehringer Brothers Auxerrois, and Grey Monk Pinot Auxerrois.  

The similarities and contrasts were more striking that when the Goddess paired two Chardonnays in the last Mystery Case.

Grey Monk’s varietal is a little softer, and longer in flavour.  Extremely well defined.

The Brothers G is a little fuller, a little more mellow.  Excellent Structure.

Bone-in Skin-on chicken breasts.  Lemon rind grated, squeezed lemon juice, BC Honey, tarragon, small clove of crushed garlic and baked.  The side was the house Spinach/orzo, pine nuts, currents with chunks of Feta.

And for the second night, we did our version of Mediterranean style home made pizza.

Maintaining the flow was “Guitars for Small Rooms”, playing in the big room. Second night featured blues and Jazz.

GRAY MONK – PINOT AUXERROIS 2019

$16.99

11.6% alcohol

UPC: 00778829111183

GEHRINGER – AUXERROIS OLD VINES GOLDEN MILE BENCH 2019

Regularly $14.49, on sale for $13.49

12.4% alcohol

UPC: 00623871010031