History Flashcards
Who founded Provence?
The Phoceans in 600 BC
Significance of Provence in France
First vineyards planted
When did the Romans land?
121 BC
Massilia’s winemakers introduced what practice?
Short maceration making rose colored wines ~100 BC
Number of Grape Varietals allowed in Provence
36 – Most of any region in France
Why are there so many varietals in Provence?
After Rome’s fall, many invaders continued through the land planting more. Resulting in varietals from Greece / Italian / Spanish / France
Why did Provence wines become popular?
Ancient Roman elitists made it noble.
14th Century French aristocrats bought vineyards in the area
Phylloxera’s impact
Only 10 years (1880–1890)
Lost a significant amount of varietals since many rejected grafting techniques
Railroads’ impact
In 1890, able to ship to other markets.
Over production becomes a problem leading to a collective in 1905 to focus on quality of wines.
Terroir – Climate
Optimal Mediterranean
Very little rain
Highest amount of sunshine hours in France
High temperature but strong influence from the sea
Strong norther winds / The Mistral (Great for drying off water)
Terroir – Soil
Limestone mountains in the west and north
Granite, Schist, and Volcanic sheltered valleys in the east
The Crus Classés
1977 decree – Only 18 of 300 domaines
Requirements
1. Direct sale at the vineyard
2. Bottling at the property
3. Placing the wines on the market after a minimum of 18 months of aging
4. The use of an appellation of origin or a brand prior to 1935
Pastis de Marseilles
Alcoholic beverages flavored with anise and licorice
Base is anise, grown along the south of the Med
Bottles produced
150 million bottles per year
89% of wine in volume is Rosé
Produces 40% of France’s Rosé and 5% of the world’s
IGPs and AOPs
7 Wine IGPs; 9 Wine AOPs
Produces 40% of France’s Rosé and 5% of the world’s
