Folle Blanche

Folle Blanche is a white grape variety grown mainly in the Loire Valley and western France. It is a vigorous, high yielding grape that is known for producing acidic wines with realtively neutral aromas. It was once a very popular grape variety, especially for the production of base wines for cognac or armagnac.

Folle Blanche produces light to medium-bodied white wines with aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers, apple and herbs. These wines are usually dry, light-bodied and with high acidity.

Folle Blanche is grown mainly in the Loire Valley and western France. It is also found in some parts of Spain and in California. Folle Blanche is a vigorous, high yielding grape that requires careful vineyard management. The grapes prefer cool climates and well-drained soil. Folle Blanche is very susceptible to botrytis bunch rot due to its compact bunches The wines produced from Folle Blanche are typically aged in stainless steel tanks for a short period of time before released to the markets. In the western part of the Loire Valley, Folle Blanche is used to make the light and crisp "Gros Plant du Pays Nantais" wine. In Spain, Folle Blanche is also known as "Mune Mahatsa" and often blended with other local varieties. Folle Blanche pairs well with light dishes such as seafood and white meats. It is also a great choice for aperitifs and cheeses.

The first mention of Folle Blanche was in 1696 in Chérac in western France, where it has traditionally been used to make cognac and armagna.