Pascal Blanc is an old and almost-extinct white grape variety that was once abundant in Provence. The vine is particularly susceptible to powdery mildew and rot which has only added to its demise. Pascal Blanc can be found predominantly around Cassis for the purpose of blending.
Pascal Blanc is permitted in the AOC wines of Cassis as a secondary grape (officially an "accessory variety"). Here, it is allowed to contribute up to 40 percent of the final blend, usually alongside Marsanne, Ugni Blanc (Trebbiano) and Clairette.
It is best suited to warm, dry climates and well-drained soils, which explains its continued existence in the warm, Mediterranean climes of Cassis. However, despite Pascal Blanc's inclusion in the AOC, few producers still persist with the disease-sensitive variety.
Pascal Blanc contributes citrus, green herb and nutty flavors to the light, dry wines of Cassis.
Synonyms include: Brun Blanc, Jokabin Violet, Ostertraube, Pascal, Plant Pascal.
Food pairings for Pascal Blanc wines include:
- "Soupe de poisson" (fish soup)
- "Frutos de mar con limon" (seafood with lemon)
- Pasta with walnut pesto