Grape Variety
Gros-Plant
"groh plahn (fohl blahnsh)"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Gros-Plant
Origin
Southwest France
History
Folle Blanche, known as Gros Plant in the Loire Valley, is a white grape variety from southwest France. Historically, it was the traditional grape variety in Cognac and Armagnac production until the 20th century. In the Pays Nantais region of the Loire Valley, it is used to produce the tangy, dry white wines sold as Gros Plant du Pays Nantais. The variety was once commonly grown across the west of France but has been mostly replaced by its offspring, Baco Blanc, in Cognac and Armagnac production.
Appearance
Small, greenish-yellow berries forming tight clusters.
Growing Traits
Folle Blanche is a vigorous and productive grape variety that thrives in cool, maritime climates, particularly in the Loire Valley's Pays Nantais region. However, it is prone to rot, especially in wet seasons, due to its tight clusters and thin skins. This susceptibility necessitates careful vineyard management to ensure healthy crops.
Wine Characteristics
Body
1/5
Sweetness
0/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
2/5
Light-bodied with a crisp and tangy character, offering a refreshing and zesty profile. Typically bone-dry, emphasizing its high acidity and mineral notes. Negligible tannins, as it is a white wine variety, resulting in a clean and sharp finish. High acidity, contributing to its vibrant freshness and making it an excellent companion for seafood. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 10% and 12%, providing a light and approachable character.
Taste Profile
Green Apple
Citrus
Mineral
Floral
Herbal
Gros Plant wines are characterized by flavors of green apple and citrus, complemented by pronounced mineral notes and subtle floral and herbal undertones. The high acidity provides a crisp and mouth-watering experience, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. When aged on lees, the wines can develop additional complexity and a slight creaminess, balancing the sharp acidity.
Food Pairing
Gros Plant's high acidity and crisp profile make it an ideal companion for seafood, particularly oysters and shellfish. Its tangy nature complements the brininess of seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, it pairs well with light salads, goat cheese, and dishes featuring citrus elements.
Growing Regions
France
Loire Valley (Pays Nantais)Southwest France (Cognac and Armagnac regions)
Spain
Basque Country
Notable Wines & Producers
Gros Plant du Pays Nantais
Domaine de la Pépière
Domaine Luneau-Papin
Armagnac
Château de Laubade
Domaine Boingnères
Cognac
Hine
Delamain
Gros-Plant FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Gros-Plant?
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Southwest France
Is Gros-Plant wine full bodied?
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Gros-Plant has a body level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Gros-Plant is Light bodied.
Is Gros-Plant wine dry or sweet?
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Gros-Plant has a dryness level of 0 out of 5. Which means that Gros-Plant is Sweet.
Where is Gros-Plant wine from?
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Southwest France
Where is Gros-Plant grown?
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Gros-Plant is grown in France (Loire Valley (Pays Nantais), Southwest France (Cognac and Armagnac regions))Spain (Basque Country).
What is Gros-Plant like?
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Gros Plant wines are characterized by flavors of green apple and citrus, complemented by pronounced mineral notes and subtle floral and herbal undertones. The high acidity provides a crisp and mouth-watering experience, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. When aged on lees, the wines can develop additional complexity and a slight creaminess, balancing the sharp acidity.
What does Gros-Plant pair with?
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Gros Plant's high acidity and crisp profile make it an ideal companion for seafood, particularly oysters and shellfish. Its tangy nature complements the brininess of seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, it pairs well with light salads, goat cheese, and dishes featuring citrus elements.
What does Gros-Plant taste like?
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Gros Plant wines are characterized by flavors of green apple and citrus, complemented by pronounced mineral notes and subtle floral and herbal undertones. The high acidity provides a crisp and mouth-watering experience, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. When aged on lees, the wines can develop additional complexity and a slight creaminess, balancing the sharp acidity.
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