French grape breeder Jean-Louis Vidal created Vidal Blanc in the 1930's by crossing Ugni Blanc, a grape used for brandy production, with Rayon d'Or, a winter-hardy hybrid grape. His goal was to create a grape that could be used to make cognac in the cold, maritime climate of western France.  Monsieur Vidal succeeded in creating a hardy variety with a thick skin that thrives in the blistering Oklahoma summer just as well as colder climates. It is surprising that this tough little grape produces such a beautiful, light, and fresh wine.