The grape variety Clairette

Clairette is an ancient white grape variety most commonly associated with southern France, particularly the Rhône Valley, Provence, and the Languedoc regions. Renowned for its adaptability to warm, dry climates, Clairette yields wines with a delicate aromatic profile. On the nose, Clairette tends to exhibit subtle aromas of green apple, stone fruit, citrus blossom, and hints of herbs or anise. On the palate, it displays moderate acidity and a soft, rounded texture, delivering flavors of pear, melon, lemon zest, and occasionally almonds. Occasionally, a slightly bitter note lingers on the finish, contributing to its distinctive character.

Clairette is frequently used in both still and sparkling wine styles. It plays a key role in wines like Clairette de Die, a lightly sparkling wine from the Rhône, as well as in blends for Côtes du Rhône Blanc and Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, where it adds freshness and lift to the blends.

With its understated elegance, Clairette pairs well with seafood, shellfish, grilled white fish, and Provençal cuisine featuring fresh herbs and olive oil. Its subtle aromatic profile also makes it an excellent choice with goat cheese, summer salads, or light poultry dishes.