France: Southwest France Flashcards
What two appellations make up the Dordogne region of southwest France?
Bergerac (sweet and dry)
Monbazillac (sweet only)
What contributed to Cahors’ reduction in vineyard land over time?
Imposed taxes on exports
Phylloxera
Bad frosts 1956
Why does Malbec do better in Cahors than in Bordeaux?
Cahors is drier and warmer, so Malbec can ripen more regularly
What technique is required in Cahors to combat aggressive tannins?
Destemming
What sector is in charge of the most production in Cahors?
Private companies (80%)
What are the three levels of quality for Malbec in Cahors?
Tradition
Prestige
Speciale
What grape does Madiran primarily use?
Tannat
What approaches can be taken to soften the harsh tannins in Tannat?
Aging in oak, bottle age, micro-oxygenation, picking only the ripest grapes, gentle pressing
How much Madiran wine is sold outside of France?
Only 20%
What is the breakdown of sweet vs dry wines in Jurançon, and what grapes are predominantly used?
70-30 sweet to dry, Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng
What can combat the humid climate of Jurançon?
Föhn wind from the Pyrenees
Vineyards planted on slopes for better drainage
Why might wines from Jurançon have elevated prices?
Because of the many styles that can be made, grapes have to be picked in several tries, for dry to very sweet wines and everything between
Low yields raise prices as well
What is the difference between Gros and Petit Manseng?
Both have high aromatics, high acidity and thick skins, but Gros is more productive
What is the term for the highest level of sugar in Jurançon wines?
Jurançon Vendanges Tardive (min 55g/l sugar)
What is the largest IGP in southwest France?
IGP Côtes de Gascogne (80% exported)
