History of the AOC Bordeaux Clairet appellation
The AOC Bordeaux Clairet holds a special place in France's winemaking history. Indeed, the name "Clairet" recalls the "clear" or "pale" wines that were once exported to England during the Middle Ages. These wines, ancestors of today's reds, were so popular that they gave their name to what we now call "claret" in English, synonymous with Bordeaux wines. Thanks to a longer maceration than for a typical rosé wine, it extracts more color, structure, and pronounced aromas.
Climate and terroir of the AOC Bordeaux Clairet appellation
- Climate: Enjoying a temperate oceanic climate, the AOC Bordeaux Clairet benefits from warm summers and mild winters, ensuring optimal grape ripening.
- Soils: The appellation extends over diverse soils, from gravel to clay and limestone, offering an ideal base to produce these rosé wines that are both fresh and structured.
The essential grape varieties of the AOC Bordeaux Clairet appellation
Clairet is a dark rosé wine made from the main red grape varieties of Bordeaux, such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. As with the rest of the Bordeaux regional appellation, other auxiliary red grape varieties such as Malbec, Carmenere, or Petit Verdot are also allowed.
Style of AOC Bordeaux Clairet wines
- Appearance: Intense pink color, flirting with raspberry or salmon hues.
- Nose: Clairet offers a generous bouquet of fresh red fruits (strawberry, raspberry, blackcurrant), flowers, and grenadine.
- Palate: Midway between a rosé wine and a light red wine, Clairet seduces with its freshness, vivacity, and persistent fruity notes. The tannins are light and supple, providing a nice texture on the palate.
Serving temperature: 10° to 12°C
Aging potential: Best consumed young, within 1 to 2 years to enjoy its characteristic freshness.
The best food and wine pairings with AOC Bordeaux Clairet
Clairet is remarkably versatile at the table, suitable for a variety of summer dishes. Here are our recommendations for the best food and wine pairings with a rosé wine from a domain or chateau in the AOC Bordeaux Clairet:
- Appetizers: Aperitif, summer salads, charcuterie, antipasti.
- Main courses: Grilled dishes, chicken skewers, stuffed tomatoes.
- Desserts: Citrus sorbets and fruit salad.
