France - Roussillon Flashcards
What is the area under vine and how has it developed?
- 21,000 ha
- Dramatically reduced
Where are the vineyards located?
- Dominated by Pyrenees
- Vineyards on slopes or foothills
- No extensive flat, coastal plain suited to high volume grape growing, as in the Languedoc
What role do co-ops play?
Important (75% of production)
How much of the vineyard area is classified as AOC?
70%
Describe the climate and its influence on grape growing
- Warm, windy, Mediterranean climate
- Moderate rainfall (500–600mm)
- High sunshine hours
- Drought can be an issue
- Frequent winds and low rainfall reduce risk of diseases
What impact has the climate on yield?
- Reduce yield (and therefore income)
- Higher concentration of fruit
Is organic winemaking common?
Yes (15%)
What are the top 6 grape varieties? (decreasing in ha planted)
- Grenache Noir
- Syrah
- Carignan
- Muscat Blanc
- Muscat of Alexandria
- Macabeu
How has the vineyard management evolved over time?
- Historically: bush vines (require manual work)
- Nowadays: vines planted on trellises if possible (allowing for mechanization)
What are the two main appellations for dry wines?
- Côtes du Roussillon
- Côtes du Roussillon Villages
Côtes du Roussillon
What is the size?
- Large
- 5,000 ha
Côtes du Roussillon
What types of wines are produced?
- Red, rosé and white
Côtes du Roussillon
What is the max yield?
48 hL/ha
Côtes du Roussillon
Where are the vineyards located?
Lower slopes (100–250 m)
Côtes du Roussillon
What are the principal grape varieties and requirements regarding plantings?
- Principal: Carignan, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre and Syrah
- Max 50% Carignan
- Min 25% Syrah and Mourvèdre