The white grape variety originates from France. Synonyms are Aragnan, Aragnan Blanc, Araignan, Araignan Blanc, Gallet or Gallet Blanc, Grosse Clairette, Milhaud Blanc, Papadoux, Oeillade Blanche and Picardan Blanc. It must not be confused with the Bourboulenc (Picardan) or Clairette (Oeillade Blanche) varieties, despite seemingly suggestive synonyms. The varieties Bouchalès and Cinsaut (both with synonym Picardan Noir) are not colour mutations (or vice versa). It is an old grape variety from Provence, possibly mentioned as early as 1554 but confirmed in 1715, where it was cultivated quite widely under various names such as Oeillade Blanche and Araignan Blanc and also in Languedoc. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was a blending partner in the then popular sweet wine Picardan.
The name Picardan is said to derive from the words "piquer" (to prick) and "ardent" (to burn), referring to the flavour in the grapes and also the wine pressed from them. The medium ripening vine is resistant to drought and dryness. It produces white wines with moderate alcohol content and (despite the name) acidity. It is mainly grown in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape area and is one of the varieties that may be used in both white and red wines. Under the name Aragnan Blanc, it is/was a rarity in the Palette appellation. The variety is threatened with extinction, as in 2016 it only occupied less than one hectare of vines (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Images: Pl@ntGrape, INRA/IFV/Montpellier SupAgro
