France - Provence Flashcards
What is the region known for?
Pale pink rosé made principally from Grenache Noir and Cinsault
What styles of wines are produced? (incl. %)
- Rosé (90%)
- Red
- White (small amounts)
What varieties are used for red wine production?
- Grenache Noir
- Syrah
- Cinsault
- Mourvèdre
- Carignan
What varieties are used for white wine production?
- Vermentino (locally known as Rolle)
- Clairette
Why was the vineyard area in coastal areas reduced?
Competition for land from housing development and tourism
What are the top varieties (decreasing in ha planted)
- Grenache Noir
- Cinsault
- Syrah
- Carignan
- Rolle (WHITE)
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Describe the climate and grape growing conditions
- Warm Mediterranean climate
- Adequate rainfall
- Cold Mistral wind -> cooling influence and reduced diesease risk
- Cold winds can also interrupt flowering and fruit set
Is organic grape growing practiced?
- Yes, double than national avg.
- Climate favorable for it
Where are the best vineyards located?
- Shelter from the Mistral
- Altitudes up to 400m and inland -> moderating influence
How did the vine training system evolve?
Traditional: bush vines (shading)
Nowadays: Trellised vines, suitable for mechanization
Why is harvest timing important for Rosé wines?
- Ensuring fruit ripeness
- Tannin ripeness (if short maceration)
- Retaining acidity
Why is the Rosé pale in color
Because of the varieties used: Grenache Noir, Cinsault, and Tibouren (local)
What are the requirements regarding grape varieties?
- Up to 20% white varieties allowed
- Can help to reduce alcohol levels
What are the options for Rosé winemaking?
- Direct pressing (most common)
- Short maceration
Is acidification allowed?
Yes, commonly practiced
Describe the Rosé winemaking process (fruit handling, pressing, vessel, yeast, temp, malo, fining, lees ageing, oak)
- Protective winemaking
- Fruit is chilled to 4°C
- Whole bunch pressing or short maceration
- Fermentation in stainless steel using cultured yeast
- Mid-level fermentation temps (14-18°C)
- Malo is blocked
- Color may be reduced by fining
- 2-3 months on lees, sometimes longer
- Some produce oak-aged premium Rosé
Côtes de Provence
What is the area’s size?
- Large
- 20,000 ha
Côtes de Provence
What are the principal varieties for Rosé wines?
- Grenache Noir
- Cinsault
- Mourvèdre
- Syrah
- Tibouren