Clairette du Languedoc Languedoc, France 1 Items Follow

The smallest AOC in the Languedoc at 110 hectares, the region is dedicated to white wines made entirely from the Clairette grape, which was introduced here by Greek settlers in the first century BCE. Recognized as an AOC in 1948, it is the oldest Languedoc appellation (along with Fitou).

Hot and dry, the low-lying vineyards of Clairette du Languedoc are located along the Hérault River. The poor soils of clay, quartz, limestone and flint add mineral complexity to the wines while keeping yields low. Clairette, a variety prone to high content, is capable of a variety of distinct wine styles.

The early harvested grapes make dry, medium-bodied wines with guava and mango qualities, but can age into full-bodied beauties with hazelnut and jam flavors. Sweet wines made from later-harvested grapes show honeyed peach and pear, balanced by a quince-citrus freshness. The rancio style of Clairette (similar to the effect of maderizing) is also possible. Aged a minimum of three years, it is a sweet, oxidized wine with honey, fig and hazelnut characters. Finally, a small amount of fortified wine is made by the addition of neutral grape spirits.