Clairet: the forgotten wine of Bordeaux makes a strong comeback… an opportunity for modern wines

Clairet, a historic wine that lies somewhere between rosé and light red, is truly a hidden gem. At a time when consumers are seeking different wines, Clairet has all the attributes and legitimacy to become a must-have in our modern era.

Originating from the period when the English occupied the Aquitaine region for 300 years, clairet, known as “French claret” by the Anglo-Saxon, was a simple red wine made through short maceration. It evolved under the name clairet and has had a controlled designation of origin (AOC) since the 1950s. Clairets are characterized by an intense color with raspberry hue and aromas of strawberry, blackcurrant, and pomegranate. On palate, they are rounder than rosés, with a longer finish, and perfectly suited to current trends.

Nevertheless, Clairet remains little known and underestimated in Bordeaux, covering only 50 hectares of Bordeaux vineyards, or less than 0.1% of the total area. This situation is paradoxical given the current trend of seeking fresh and light wines.

Clairet may not have said its last word. Today, more and more winemakers are rediscovering this wine and producing high-quality versions. Clairet is a wine that deserves to be known. It is time to give this traditional wine the place it deserves on the market.

Here is a LAFFORT® protocol to succeed with your gourmet rosé “Clairet Style”.