Clairette Ronde

A grape varietal used in the production of white wine. Although the varietal originated in central Italy, it is also grown in areas such as France, Australia, South America, Portugal, and the United States. It is believed that the Clairette Ronde produces more wine than any other variety world wide. The Clairette Ronde varietal is traditionally blended with varieties that exhibit more predominate traits. In Tuscany, the Clairette Ronde is blended with the Malvasia varietal in the production of Chianti. The amount of Clairette Ronde and Malvasia is dictated by laws controlling wine production. In California, where the varietal is called Saint Emillion, it is used primarily in the production of brandy. Clairette Ronde is most often distilled rather than vinified into wine.