Clairette – one of the oldest white wine vines in southern France
Clairette is one of the oldest cultivated grape varieties in the Mediterranean region and is found today primarily in Languedoc-Roussillon as well as – as an exciting exception – in South Africa's Franschhoek. At Vinoscout, you will find a small, hand-picked selection of carefully selected wines of this variety.
Origin & Character
Clairette has its origin in southern France, where it has been cultivated for centuries in the Languedoc – among other places in the appellation Clairette du Languedoc, one of the few AOCs that give the variety its name. The wines typically show a light, fresh profile with aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, and a hint of herbs. With increasing age, they develop a nutty, almost oxidative depth that is reminiscent of walnut and beeswax. The fact that the variety also thrives in Franschhoek, South Africa, shows its adaptability to warm, dry locations – there, the style often turns out somewhat fuller-bodied and fruit-forward.
Pairs with
- Grilled sea bass or sea bream with herbs of Provence
- Provençal vegetable dishes like ratatouille or stuffed zucchini
- Fresh goat cheese and mild soft cheeses
- Seafood platter, especially mussels and shrimp
Buy Clairette at Vinoscout
Whether you are looking for the classic expression from the Languedoc or are curious about the South African interpretation from Franschhoek – both wines in the assortment show how versatile this underestimated variety can be. Browse through the selection and find your introduction to the world of Clairette.
