Aurore (Vitis ‘Aurore’) is a distinctive hybrid grape variety known for its adaptability, particularly in regions with shorter growing seasons. Its early ripening and notable cold hardiness make it suitable for cultivation in diverse climates.
Aurore Grape Profile
The Aurore grape, also known as Seibel 5279, is a complex hybrid developed by French viticulturist Albert Seibel. It originated from a cross between Seibel 788 and Seibel 29, bred in 1938 in France. The grape was named after Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, reflecting its early ripening.
Aurore produces white grapes, though clusters can often exhibit a subtle pink tinge. The vines are vigorous and productive. This variety ripens early, typically between late August and early September, making it well-suited for cooler climates.
Aurore vines demonstrate moderate winter hardiness, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). Its flavor profile is light-bodied and relatively neutral, sometimes displaying a subtle “foxy” note characteristic of certain hybrid grapes. The grape’s pulp is soft and juicy.
Growing Aurore Grapes
Aurore grapes thrive in full sun exposure, which is beneficial for ripening and overall vine health. They also necessitate well-drained soil, with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, ideally ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
When planting, set the vines at the same depth as their nursery containers. Due to their vigorous growth, establishing a robust trellising system is important for supporting the vine’s growth and managing productivity. The Top Wire Cordon (TWC) system is often employed for training Aurore vines.
Aurore vines benefit from annual pruning during the dormant winter season, with growers typically removing a significant portion of the previous year’s growth, sometimes up to 90%. Cane pruning helps manage vigor and concentrate the vine’s energy into fruit development. Summer leaf-pulling improves air circulation and sunlight exposure to the developing clusters.
Aurore shows good resistance to downy mildew. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, black rot, botrytis bunch rot, and Eutypa dieback. Aurore vines can also be attractive to Japanese beetles and are susceptible to bird damage.
Uses of Aurore Grapes
Aurore grapes offer versatility in applications, primarily in winemaking, but also as a table grape and for juice production. In wine, Aurore is commonly used to produce white wines, ranging from dry to off-dry styles, and is suitable for sparkling wine bases. Its neutral flavor profile often leads to blending with other grape varieties to create more complex wines.
While initially bred as a table grape, Aurore is less frequently found in commercial markets for fresh consumption. This is largely due to its characteristics, such as the tendency for berries to detach from the stem and their relatively short shelf life, making them less ideal for shipping. However, home gardeners often appreciate Aurore as a fresh eating grape because of its soft, juicy texture.
Aurore grapes are also processed into juice and preserves. The early ripening of the fruit provides an advantage for these uses, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons, allowing for an earlier harvest.