Clairette is a white wine grape that has been mainly cultivated in Southern France for centuries. It is celebrated for its freshness, high acidity, and aromatic potential, which make it vital for still and sparkling wines. Valued for its expressive floral and fruit aromas, Clairette also showcases its ability to develop complexity and texture as it ages.
Although once highly regarded, Clairette’s prominence declined as higher-acid, more structured white varieties gained popularity. However, it is currently experiencing a resurgence, particularly in single-varietal wines and sustainable winemaking practices.
Clairette, also called Clairette Blanche, is one of the oldest grape varieties in southern France, especially near the Mediterranean. This historic white wine grape has medium-sized clusters and berries that start milky white and develop a golden color when ripe.
The leaves are dark green on top with slight blue edges, while their undersides are white and fuzzy. The round berries turn greenish-yellow when fully ripe. Clairette grows vigorously but ripens late, requiring patience before harvest.
Clairette truly shines in the bottle. These wines offer elegant aromas of fennel, apple, lime blossom, apricot, and peach. They're typically light and fresh, featuring flavors of green apple, pear, and sometimes white peach.
These wines have high alcohol content but lower acidity, giving them a unique profile. Clairette's flexibility allows it to become still or sparkling wine, working well in both dry and sweet styles. Young Clairette wines are bright and refreshing, full of citrus and floral notes that make them particularly enjoyable.
Clairette is also known under different synonyms. Some of the most common are:
Clairette has been cultivated in France since at least the 16th century, and historical references link it to the Rhône Valley, Provence, and Languedoc-Roussillon. Its name, derived from the Latin "Clarus" (meaning bright or clear), reflects its light colour and crisp profile. Historically, it was favoured for its ability to retain acidity in warm climates, making it an important component of white blends and early sparkling wines.
By the 20th century, Clairette’s popularity declined in favour of higher-yielding or more structured varieties like Marsanne, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc. Today, however, it is regaining interest due to renewed appreciation for indigenous varieties and sustainability efforts.
Thrives in warm Mediterranean climates. Prefers dry, well-drained soils (limestone, clay, and sandy soils). Handles drought conditions well but can lose acidity in extreme heat.
Clairette is used in both single-varietal and blended wines, showcasing its versatility among grape varieties. In the Rhône Valley, producers utilize various grape varieties, including Clairette, based on viticultural and historical criteria.
A vigorous grape variety, Clairette Blanche requires short pruning and careful disbudding to curb its vegetative growth. It grows semi-upright. Its branches are moderately susceptible to wind. Clairette Blanche is relatively late-budding and less vulnerable to spring frosts. Producers prefer to harvest it early to focus on its citrusy expressiveness and minerality.
Moderately resistant to fungal diseases. Vulnerable to oxidation, requiring careful handling during winemaking.
The grape variety is widely planted in the south of France, with around 5,000 acres planted as of 2016. Notable plantings include:
Beyond France, Clairette has limited plantings in South Africa and Australia, where it is occasionally used in blends.
Emerging Trends and Developments:
Consumer Preferences and Market Trends:
Potential for Growth and Expansion:
Clairette is used to produce both white wine and Rosé, with Clairette Rose being used for the latter.
Clairette wines usually showcase notes of green apple, lime, peach, licorice, white peach, and floral nuances. This grape is noted for producing wines with both low alcohol content and high acidity. Typically, Clairette wines are characterized by their soft, fruity essence. Clairette Blanche presents a pale hue and offers aromas of pineapple, key lime, and mint. On the palate, it features flavours of kaffir lime, green plum, and lemongrass.
Young Clairette wines are ideally enjoyed within 3 to 5 years, showcasing vibrant citrus and floral aromas. When blended or aged in oak, these wines can gain depth over 5 to 10 years, revealing rich honey and nut flavours.
Clairette complements a variety of seafood and vegetable meals. The wine’s refreshing acidity and gentle sweetness enhance lighter, fresh flavours. Its floral and citrus characteristics also make it an excellent choice for Asian-inspired cuisines like sushi and stir-fries.
Clairette is a historic French grape, prized for its floral aromas, fresh acidity, and versatility in blends, sparkling wines, and still wines. While once declining in popularity, its resurgence in sustainable winemaking and single-varietal expressions is renewing interest.
Clairette is a versatile grape variety that can be used to produce a range of wine styles, from still wines to Sparkling wines.
The grape’s high acidity and low alcohol make it well-suited for blending and adding freshness to wines. Clairette wines are perfect for those looking for a crisp and refreshing white wine with a range of flavours and aromas.
.webp)
.webp)
Are you interested in
collaborating with us?
Copyright © 2024 Vinerra Corp.
