Chapter 6 - Geology Flashcards
Name three important geological periods for the Champagne region.
- Paleogene (Tertiary)
- Cretaceous (Upper)
- Cretaceous (Lower)
- Jurassic (Upper)
What are the Cretaceous periods that are important for champagne?
- Campanian
- Santonian
- Turonian
In which period are the Belemnite fossils found?
Campanian
In which period are the Micraster fossils found?
Santonian
What is Chalk?
Limestone: sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. From algae and marine organisms.
What are some benefits of the Upper Cretaceous chalk?
- Water management: draining and retaining.
- Reflection of light and heat, aiding ripening.
- Alkaline soils, producing acidic wines.
What are the important Jurassic periods for the Côtes des Bar?
- Tithonian - Portlandian Limestone
- Kimmeridgian - Kimmeridgian Marl
What type of terroir does Mongueux have?
Turonian chalk with Paleogene topsoils.
What benefits do slopes provide for vine growing?
- Optimal exposure to sunlight
- Facilitate good drainage.
- Provide a Tertiary soil mix through “geological geometry” (James Wilson)
Where is the Champagne region geologically?
In the Paris Basin.
What are the deposits in the Paris Basin in the Triassic period?
Gypsum, Rock Salt, Sandstone.
What are the deposits in the Paris Basin in the Jurassic period?
Sandstone, Limestone.
What are the deposits in the Paris Basin in the Cretaceous period?
Chalk, Clays, Sands
What are the deposits in the Paris Basin in the Tertiary period?
Sands, Marls, Lignite Clays.
How big is the Paris Basin?
54,000 square miles.
25% of France.
When was the Paris Basin formed?
250-270 million years ago
Are the soils of Champagne sedimentary?
Yes.