Clairette rose
Very little used in the Rhône Valley, Clairette rose is a mutation of Clairette blanche. Already known at the beginning of the 19th century, it is today mainly cultivated in the Gard.
Contents
Informations
Origin: South of France
Location within the Rhône Valley: Gard
Plantings within the Rhône Valley AOCs: About 80 hectares
In the vineyards
Ampelography: Dark green leaf on top, with an almost bluish coloring on the teeth, but white and very hairy on its underside
Bunch and berries: Medium-sized clusters and berries, bright pink in color
Maturity: Late-ripening
Characteristics: Vigorous grape variety, which can even withstand over-ripeness, but sensitive to mildew. Clairette rose is often more productive than Clairette blanche.
Terroir: Suited to warm areas and poor soils
In the cellars
Characteristics: Clairette rose produces wines with good aromatic finesse. It expresses all its aromatic potential if the vinification includes skin maceration.
Wine styles: Still dry red and rosé wines; in white wines, it is only allowed for AOC Gigondas, Clairette de Die and Crémant de Die