5. Vins Doux Naturels Flashcards
What appellation do 80% of VDNs come from?
Roussillon
What is the general climate for the majority of VDN PDOs?
Mediterranean
What is the name of the wind that affects Roussillon?
How does this wind effect the region?
How does it effect the vines?
Tramontane
It’s a strong, dry cold wind that comes from the northwest. Similar in effect to the Mistral, but follows a different path, between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees.
Greater transpiration, when combined with the warm climate, and therefore more concentrated grapes.
How does higher concentration of sugar in the grapes affect winemaking choices and outcomes?
Positive - More sugar means the juice can ferment longer and still have the desired level of residual sugar. This also means less fortifying alcohol is needed.
Negative - It does reduce juice yield.
What are the two kinds of Muscat used for VDNs?
Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains
Muscat of Alexandria
What are the key characteristics of Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains? (5)
- Most widely planted in France
- Smaller grapes than MoA and presumably therefore more flavour intensity.
- Drought tolerant
- Susceptible to powdery, botrytis bunch rot and mites
- Plantings are increasing as it’s popularity for dry table wines increases
What are the key characteristics of Muscat of Alexandria? (5)
- Bigger grapes than MBaPG
- Higher sugar levels than MBaPG
- Drought tolerant
- Susceptible to powdery and botrytis bunch rot
- Plantings are decreasing as wines are said to be less refined
What are the key characteristics of Grenache Noir? (5)
- Late-ripening
- Drought tolerant
- High yielding, which must be controlled or colour concentration can be lost
- Has fast sugar accumulation
- Susceptible to coulure at fruit set, downy, phomopsis and botrytis bunch rot
What are the three additional varieties that may also be part of the blend for VDNs?
Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris and Macabeu
What canopy management techniques are used and why?
A shaded canopy is needed to reduce sunburn and shrivel.
Generally, what are maximum yields?
Small, 30hL/ha
What is minimum potential alcohol for picking?
14.8%
Describe the harvest?
Usually as early after minimum potential alcohol is reached to retain as much acidity as possible.
By hand, often with several passes depending on ripeness.
Late harvest/botrytis character is not desired
What is the range of minimum residual sugar across appellation?
Muscat - 100-125g/L
Grenache - 45g/L
Although Grenache can be also be around 100g/L in practice
What spirit is used for fortification of VDNs and why?
Neutral, 95-96% ABV
So as to not alter or compete with the character of the base wines