Folle Blanche
Folle Blanche is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Loire Valley and the Cognac and Armagnac regions of France. It is best known for its role in producing high-quality brandies, particularly Cognac and Armagnac, as well as in the production of the traditional French spirit known as "Pineau des Charentes." The grape is also used to make crisp, acidic white wines, although it is less common for this purpose today.
Folle Blanche wines typically exhibit a light body with high acidity and fresh, clean flavors. The flavor profile often includes notes of green apple, lemon, pear, and sometimes floral or herbal hints. The grape's high acidity makes it particularly suitable for distillation, as it contributes to the production of bright, aromatic spirits with a smooth finish. Read more
In the Cognac and Armagnac regions, Folle Blanche was historically the dominant grape variety until the phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th century drastically reduced its plantings. Since then, it has been largely replaced by Ugni Blanc (also known as Trebbiano), which is more resistant to disease and easier to grow.
However, Folle Blanche is still prized for the exceptional quality of the spirits it produces, and some producers continue to use it for premium brandies. In addition to its use in brandy production, Folle Blanche is used in the Loire Valley to produce light, refreshing white wines.
These wines are typically consumed young to take advantage of their vibrant acidity and fresh fruit flavors.
