Folle Blanche

Folle Blanche is a white wine grape variety that is grown primarily in the Loire Valley and in the Cognac region of France. It is also known as Picpoule (also spelled Piquepoul), among other synonyms. The grape has been in decline in recent years, but is still used in the production of some Cognac and Armagnac brandies.

History

Folle Blanche originated in the southwest of France in the 17th Century. It was once the most widely planted grape in western France and was the primary grape used in the production of Cognac and Armagnac. However, the grape's susceptibility to disease and the Phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th Century led to a decline in its cultivation. Today, it is a minor grape in its native regions, but has seen some resurgence in the United States, particularly in California.

Viticulture

Folle Blanche is a high-yielding grape variety that ripens early. It is susceptible to a number of diseases, including mildew and grey rot. The grape has a high acidity, which makes it suitable for distillation and the production of brandy.

Wine regions

In France, Folle Blanche is grown primarily in the Loire Valley and in the Cognac and Armagnac regions. It is also grown to a lesser extent in the Basque Country. In the United States, the grape is grown in California, where it is used to produce a variety of wine styles, including still, sparkling, and dessert wines.

Wines

Wines made from Folle Blanche are typically high in acidity and have fresh, crisp flavors. They are often characterized by their floral and fruit notes, particularly of green apple and citrus. In the Cognac and Armagnac regions, the grape is used to produce high-quality brandies.

Synonyms

Folle Blanche is known by a number of synonyms, including Picpoule, Gros Plant, and Enrageat blanc. It should not be confused with the Picpoul grape, which is a different variety.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• French wine
• Cognac
• Armagnac (brandy)