Clairette blanche

Clairette Blanche

Clairette Blanche grapes

Clairette Blanche is a white grape variety primarily grown in the southern French wine regions. Known for its high acidity and ability to produce wines with a fresh, crisp character, Clairette Blanche is often used in the production of both still and sparkling wines. It is one of the oldest grape varieties in France, with a history that dates back to the 16th century.

Characteristics

Clairette Blanche grapes are known for their relatively high sugar content and low acidity, which can lead to wines that are high in alcohol. The grape produces wines that are typically light-bodied with floral and fruity aromas, often exhibiting notes of apple, pear, and citrus. The wines can also have a slight bitterness on the finish, which is a characteristic feature of the variety.

Viticulture

Clairette Blanche leaves

The Clairette Blanche vine is vigorous and can adapt to a variety of soil types, although it thrives best in well-drained, sandy soils. It is a late-ripening variety, which makes it susceptible to spring frosts. The vine's leaves are medium-sized with a five-lobed shape, and the grapes are small to medium in size, forming compact clusters.

Wine Regions

Clairette Blanche is predominantly grown in the Rhône Valley, Provence, and Languedoc-Roussillon regions of France. It is a key component in the production of several AOC wines, including Clairette de Die, a sparkling wine from the Rhône Valley, and Crémant de Limoux, a sparkling wine from the Languedoc region.

Wine Styles

Clairette Blanche is versatile and can be used to produce a range of wine styles. In addition to sparkling wines, it is also used to make still wines, which can be either dry or sweet. The grape's natural acidity makes it suitable for blending with other varieties, such as Grenache Blanc and Bourboulenc, to add freshness and balance to the wine.

Related Varieties

Clairette Blanche should not be confused with Clairette Rose, a pink-skinned mutation of the variety, or Clairette Muscat, which is a different grape altogether. The variety is sometimes blended with other white grapes to enhance its aromatic profile and balance its natural bitterness.

Related Pages

• Rhône wine
• Provence wine
• Languedoc wine
• Sparkling wine