Chapter 20 - The Southern Rhône

Question 1

Climate and grape growing

Answer 1

• much greater are than Northern Rhône, broad range of wines from different price categories
• Flatter terrain than Northern Rhône, many sites have very tony soils to absorb sun’s heat
• Mediterranean climate with mild winters, warm dry summers, drought risk
• Wines are often complex blends. Sometimes made from a dozen or more grape varieties

Question 2

Black grape varieties

Answer 2

• Grenache: most important grape. Concentrated spiced red fruit flavours
• Syrah/Mourvèdre: supporting role to Grenache. Deeply coloured, high in tannins
• Cinsault: often blending partner to Grenache in fresh, fruity rosés
• No typical Southern Rhône style, but managing high tannins and high alcohol is important
• Oak considered to be overwhelming Grenache flavours

Question 3

White grape varieties

Answer 3

• Only few white grapes planted
• Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc. Richly textured, full-bodied, high in alcohol, low to medium acidity, subtle fruity aromas. New oak rarely used

Question 4

Generic appellations

Answer 4

• Côtes du Rhône: more than half of wine production. Côtes du Rhône Villages: village appellation, made from Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre.
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape: By far the largest cru. Grenache dominating. Full-bodied, richly textured, spiced red fruit flavours to balance high alcohol. Small quantity of white CdP made
• Tavel and Lirac: Two southern crus. Famous for production of rosés made from Grenache and Cinsault. Full-bodied, intensely flavoured, capable of developing greater complexity. Lirac also produces red and white wines in CdP style
• Other villages promoted to Crus: Gigondas and Vacqueyras are crus. Similar style to CdP, but less well-known