Beverage

Clairette

Clairette is a southern French white of the Rhône and Languedoc, lower in acid than many northern whites and often blended for softness, florality, and alcohol lift. Pure Clairette can show white flower, fennel, apple, and a gentle bitterness; sparkling Clairette de Die (often with Muscat) is a separate low-alcohol tradition. Still dry Clairette from quality growers feels Mediterranean—sun-warmed fruit with herbal lift rather than steel-citrus snap. Body is medium; oak rare. Pair with Provençal fish stews, aioli platters, and herb-roasted vegetables. In blends Clairette rounds sharp partners; as a single variety it deglazes garlic-and-tomato seafood pans without Riesling’s lime edge. Keep cooking heat moderate so low acid does not collapse into flabbiness once reduced.

Also known as: Clairette