Languedoc Pt 4 - Viticulture and Winemaking

Question 1

What is the traditional training method of Languedoc?

Answer 1

Gobelet

Question 2

What alternative system of training is in use in the Languedoc? Why?

Answer 2

Guyot is being used more widely. It allows for mechanical harvesting and is easier to prune.

Question 3

What is the orientation of vineyards in Languedoc? Why is this?

Answer 3

Normally run East to West. This means that there is no shading of the canopy during the day as would be the case with a N-S orientation.

Question 4

Is irrigation permitted in Languedoc?

Answer 4

Yes as there is a drought risk during the growing season. Permission must be sought. It can continue through to end of April.

Question 5

How are the growers attempting to combat drought risks in Languedoc?

Answer 5

By waste water reprocessing and finding drought resistant rootstocks.

Question 6

Why are green farming practices such as organic and biodynamic viticulture so popular in Languedoc?

Answer 6

Because of its excellent climate, fierce winds(low disease pressure) and open-minded and motivated growers.

Question 7

What % of France’s and the world’s organic vineyards are in Languedoc?

Answer 7

38% of France and 7% of the World. there are also 47 Certified Biodynamic domaines.

Question 8

What is the Res-Dur hybrid?

Answer 8

It is mildew resistant rootstock being trialled in Languedoc.

Question 9

How are Languedoc farmers responding to climate change?

Answer 9

They are experimenting with even warmer climate grapes such as those from Greece - Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko, or thick skinned Marselan

Question 10

What are known as the Heritage grapes in Languedoc?

Answer 10

Rivairenc, Aramon.

Question 11

What is the Carignan Renaissance?

Answer 11

A group to promote Carignan which is a drought-resistant grape which used to be the backbone of Languedoc red blends.

Question 12

How are white wines generally made in Languedoc?

Answer 12

By direct press or by a short skin maceration using stainless steel fermentation.

Question 13

Do any white wines of Languedoc undergo barrel fermentation?

Answer 13

Yes the high calibre whites of Limoux among others.

Question 14

How is Rose made in Languedoc?

Answer 14

Direct press or saignee.

Question 15

What methods are used in red winemaking in Languedoc?

Answer 15

Carignan often undergoes carbonic maceration. Others undergo cold soak.

Question 16

Why does Carignan undergo carbonic maceration?

Answer 16

To tame its tannins.

Question 17

How long are red wines matured in Languedoc?

Answer 17

Two years in vats before bottling. For better vintages or more prestigious bottlings it may age in barrels.

Question 18

What methods are used to make sparkling wines in Languedoc?

Answer 18

Methode Ancestrale and Method Traditionelle.