Folle Blanche, or Gros Plant as it is know in the western edge of the Loire valley, originated in Gascony and traveled its way up the Atlantic coast of France where it was grown primarily for distillation. Naturally high in acidity and with a tendency for high yields it has been declining in recent years but is preserved as its own AOC of Gros Plant de Nantais. Famille Lieubeau makes a particularly tasty version from 50 year old vines grown on granite near the village of Clisson. Think of it as the country cousin to the Bel Abord and the perfect way to start a meal along with some oysters, and maybe some razor clams, and prawns if you’re lucky.
