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Bourboulenc |
Bourboulenc is an extremely old grape variety which is thought to have originated in Greece where it was known as the Asprokondoura. A late-ripening variety, it tends toward leanness and neutrality, but when picked at optimum maturity it retains high natural acidity and shows fresh citrus qualities with floral notes.
On the sun-drenched, stony plateaus of the Mediterranean basin, the vine achieves a high degree of ripeness and corresponding degree of alcohol.
Plantings of Bourboulenc are now concentrated primarily in the south of France, in the Côteaux du Languedoc appellations of Corbières and Minervois, and in the southern Rhône Valley in the Tavel, Lirac, Côtes-du-Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellations.
The white and rosé wines of the southern Rhône Valley constitute less than ten percent of total production, with white wines accounting for only two to three percent. These wines are almost always blended from a number of varieties. In addition to the prevalent Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc is often blended with Clairette, Bourboulenc, Rousanne and Marsanne, notably in white Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and all may play a minor role in the blend of red Châteauneuf-du-Pape. |
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Alternate Names: Clairette Rousse, Clairette Dorée, Grosse Clairette, Roussaou |
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See Also: Clairette Grenache Blanc Roussanne |
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