Folle Blanche

Grape variety	Folle Blanche
Grape colour	White grape
History	The 'Folle Blanche' grape variety, originating from the Loire Valley and southwestern regions of France, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Its name, translated as 'Crazy White,' is believed to refer to its erratic yield patterns. The grape was heavily affected by the phylloxera crisis in the late 19th century, leading to its cross-breeding with Baco 22A to enhance its resistance. This resulted in the creation of Baco Blanc, which shares some similarities with the 'Folle Blanche'. Despite its decline post-phylloxera, 'Folle Blanche' continues to be cultivated in France, predominantly used in the production of Cognac and Armagnac.
Synonyms	Gros Plant, Picpoul, Enrageat blanc, and Piquepoul are some known synonyms for the 'Folle Blanche' grape variety.
Ampelographic features	The 'Folle Blanche' grape is recognized for its medium to large-sized clusters of small, round, green-yellow berries. The leaves are medium-sized, round, and have a slightly open petiolar sinus. The vine is moderately vigorous and is known for its susceptibility to both oidium and downy mildew.
Characteristics of the wine	The 'Folle Blanche' grape variety produces wines that are known for their high acidity and light body, making them ideal for distillation into Cognac and Armagnac. The wine offers a fresh and crisp profile with notes of citrus, green apple, and at times, a hint of saltiness. It's often used to create lively, youthful wines that are typically consumed within a few years of production.