Clairette

It is a variety used for sparkling wine, white wine, sweet white wine, and rosé wine, and is said to have originated in the Hérault department in southern France. It is said to have been cultivated since Roman times, and was first mentioned in documents at least as early as 1575.

In the past, it was mainly cultivated in the Languedoc-Roussillon region as a raw material for vermouth, but now its main production area has shifted to the Rhone region, where it is used mainly in Clairette Dodie (sparkling wine), which made the name of Clairette famous, as well as in Tavel rosé wine. It is also cultivated in the Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence regions, where it is used to produce white wine and sparkling wine.

A typical southern variety, it prefers a Mediterranean climate and dry, calcareous, poor soil. It has a strong tree, but the branches are prone to breaking, so care must be taken with wind and pruning.

It is very resistant to drought, but is weak to mold and has low resistance to mildew. Powdery mildew is not a big concern.

The bunches are cylindrical and medium in size, and the fruit is oval with a pointed tip. The skin is light green and sometimes has black dots. The fruit is not very tightly packed, so the air can easily pass through. It is rich in juice and has a high sugar content.

The main characteristic of wine made from Clairette is its refreshing, light acidity. However, just like other grape varieties, Clairette in particular can have a wide range of flavors, from those with a strong acidity to those with a thick, full-bodied taste, depending on the composition of the soil.

The characteristic aroma is that of tropical fruits, almonds, linden, apricots, peaches, etc. The aftertaste has a slight bitterness and richness along with a sour taste, making it refreshing and satisfying.

Dry type Sparkling Clairette is perfect as an aperitif or amuse-bouche, and its lightness and freshness also makes it a perfect match for appetizers made with fresh chèvre cheese.

Clairette Dodi, an ancient-style sparkling wine with a deep natural grape sweetness, is excellent as an aperitif or the first drink of a meal, but is also recommended with desserts, especially fruit tarts.