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WSET D3 from Sam > Northern Rhône Valley > Flashcards

Northern Rhône Valley Flashcards

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1
Q

What is the name of the wind that can damage vines in the Northern Rhone?

What is the other wind called?

A

The Mistral

The “tramontane” blows through the gap between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees.

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2
Q

What is the general style of Northern Rhone reds?

A

Full-bodied, firm, and savory.

Signature secondary aromas including smoke, grilled meat, olive, lavender, and peppercorn.

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3
Q

Who are the 4 main producers that dominate production of Hermitage wine?

A

Jean-Louis Chave.

Delas.

M. Chapoutier.

Jaboulet.

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4
Q

What are the 4 quarters, or “lieux-dits” of Cornas?

A

Les Reynards

La Côte

Les Chaillot

Les Mazards.

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5
Q

What is a “demi-muid”?

A

French term for a 600-liter barrel, traditionally used in the Rhone Valley.

Literally, “half-hogshead”

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6
Q

What kind of terrain are the highest-quality vineyards planted on in the Northern Rhone?

What does this landscape offer the vines protection from?

A

On steep slopes, close to the River Rhone, facing south, often in lateral valleys.

The valleys give protection from the cold northerly Mistral.

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7
Q

What is the primary grape for the following appellations?

  • Cote Rotie
  • Condrieu
  • Chateaneuf-du-Pape
  • Hermitage Blanc
  • Tavel
  • Gigondas
  • Cornas
A

Cote Rotie: Syrah (up to 20% Viognier)

Condrieu: Viognier

CNdP: Grenache-based blend

Hermitage Blanc: Rousanne/Marsanne

Tavel: Grenache

Gigondas: Grenache

Cornas: Syrah

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8
Q

How did wines eventually reach England from the Rhone Valley?

A

In the 17th Century, traders transported the wines from the Rhone to the Loire Valley, and by the 18th Century from the Loire to England.

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9
Q

Which white varieties and in what % are allowed in the following appellations?

Cote-Rotie

St.-Joseph

Hermitage/Crozes Hermitage

A

Cote-Rotie: up to 20% Viognier.

St.-Joseph: up to 10% Marsanne/Roussanne.

Hermitage/Crozes Hermitage: up to 15% Marsanne/Roussanne.

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10
Q

What are the major differences between the Northern and Southern Rhone?

A

N. Rhone S. Rhone

Moderate Continental Warmer Mediterranean

Mistral warms the vines Mistral cools vines

Vines trained on stakes Vines bush-trained

Narrow/steep hillsides Flat/Gently rolling plains

syrah=only red grape syrah, grenache, mouvedre,

cinsault

marsanne, rousanne, white grapes=minority

viognier=white grapes

very stony soils, w/large galet stones.

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11
Q

Where is Chateau Grillet located?

A

Within Condrieu

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12
Q

What are the 3 wines from E. Guigal known as the “La La’s”?

A

La Ladonne

La Turque

La Mouline

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13
Q

What is the character of Roussanne?

A

Adds acidity and perfume, often blended with Marsanne, with age develops hazelnut aromas

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14
Q

In which 2 ways does the Rhone river moderate the climate of the Northern Rhone’s vineyards?

A
  1. Warms the adjacent slopes.
  2. Reflects sunlight up to vines.
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15
Q

List Northern Rhone Appellations from North to South

A

Cote Rotie

Condrieu

Saint Joseph

Crozes Hermitage

Hermitage

Cornas

St.-Péray

Clairette de Die

Chatillon-en-Diois

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16
Q

Alain Graillot produces wine in which commune?

A

Crozes-Hermitage.

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17
Q

What are the 2 main vineyard areas in St. Joseph and how can wines from them differ?

What is the general quality level of these wines?

A

From terraces - Full bodied

From valley floor - Lighter bodied

Basic quality level.

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18
Q

Chapoutier L’Ermite is associated with which wine/vineyard area?

A

Rhone North/Hermitage

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19
Q

Which black grapes are permitted in Northern Rhone?

A

Only Syrah is permitted

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20
Q

What is the typical style of Viognier?

What factors can change its profile?

A

Full bodied, low acid, high alcohol.

Honeyed lushness, intriguing floral aromas, and rich texture.

Use of oak and MLF can change flavor profile.

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21
Q

How is oak typically used in Northern Rhone wines?

What are some winemakers now experimenting with?

A

Typically fermented in large, oak foudres.

Some now experimenting with new barriques.

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22
Q

In which region does the E. Guigal estate primarily produce wine?

A

Northern Rhone

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23
Q

Identify the regions from North to South

A

Cote-Rotie

Condrieu (inc. Chateau Grillet.)

Condrieu/St. Joseph.

St. Joseph

Crozes-Hermitage

Hermitage

Cornas

St-Peray

Clairette de Die

Chatillon-en-Diois.

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24
Q

How does the terrain of Crozes-Hermitage differ? How does this influence the style of the red wines?

How do the wines of Crozes-Hermitage generally compare to those of Hermitage?

A

North of Hermitage - Slopes = complex and tannic, best are oaked

South - Flat plains = lighter style

Generally lighter and less-age-worthy.

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25
Q

What is “arzelle” soil and where is it found?

A

A thin topsoil that is rich with powdery, decomposed mica.

Found in the commune of Condrieu.

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26
Q

What is the climate and terrain like in Cornas?

What grapes are allowed and what is the general style of the resulting wine?

What type of soil is predominant here?

A

Most southerly appellation, sun baked south facing slopes.

100% Syrah only permitted - Deep colour, full body, similar to Hermitage.

Granite soil (“gore”)

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27
Q

Who is considered the standard bearer for traditional wines in Cornas?

What 2 choices are being made to make these wines different?

A

Auguste Clape.

  1. Whole cluster fermentation instead of de-stemming.
  2. Demi-muids instead of new oak barrels.
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28
Q

What is the character of Marsanne?

A

Adds richness and weight, often blended with Rousanne, with age develops hazelnut aromas

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29
Q

What is the climate like in Northern Rhone?

What are the main climatic differences between the Northern and Southern Rhone?

A

Moderate continental, similar to Beaujolais.

Northern: Continental, Higher rainfall, fewer hours of sunshine.

Southern: Mediterranean, drier, sunnier.

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30
Q

Which 2 slopes are considered to be the “heart” of Cote-Rotie?

How do their wines differ from each other?

A

Cote Brune and Cote Blonde.

Cote Brune: Stronger, more assertive.

Cote Blonde: Softer, more alluring.

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31
Q

Which is the highest output region of the Northern Rhone?

A

Crozes-Hermitage

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32
Q

Which white grapes are used in Northern Rhone?

A

Viognier

Marsanne

Rousanne

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33
Q

Who produces the wine below?

A

M.Chapoutier

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34
Q

Between which towns is the Northern Rhone located

A

Vienne to the North

Valence in the South

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35
Q

List 4 Northern Rhone producers:

A

Michel Chapoutier

E. Guigal

Paul Jaboulet

Jean Louis Chave

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36
Q

What are the French names for the Northern and Southern Rhone?

A

Northern Rhone: “Rhone Septentrionale”

Southern Rhone: “Rhone Meridionale”

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37
Q

Who is the largest producer in Cote-Rotie?

A

E. Guigal

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38
Q

For which 3 reasons might a winemaker in the Northern Rhone choose to co-ferment his red wine with white grapes?

A

Stabilise colour extraction

Moderate tannin extraction

Increase aromatic complexity.

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39
Q

What are the names of the winds that blow down the Rhone valley?

A

The Mistral and the Tramontane.

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40
Q

Which Northern Rhone appellation (and sub-appellation) only makes white wine?

A

Condrieu

Chateau Grillet

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41
Q

Which Appellations in Northern Rhone make white wine?

A

Condrieu - only white - 100% Viognier

Saint Joseph - Marsanne and Rousanne

Hermitage - Marsanne and Rousanne

Crozes-Hermitage - Marsanne and Rousanne

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42
Q

The Mistral can easily damage Syrah in the Northern Rhone, so what do vine growers do?

A

Give support by trellising

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43
Q

Chateau d’Ampuis is associated with which wine/vineyard area?

A

Northern Rhone/Cote Rotie

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44
Q

How are vines supported on the steep slopes?

A

Either by individual stakes or a teepee like structure.

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45
Q

What is the premier wine of Jaboulet?

Where is it produced?

A

“La Chapelle”

Hermitage.

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46
Q

Which Northern Rhone appellation produces wine that must be made with 100% syrah?

A

Cornas

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47
Q

Climate of Northern Rhone

A
  • Continental climate w clearly marked seasons
  • hard winters & hot summers (23°C avg July temp)
  • Cool, dry northerly winds (Mistral)
    • Reduces fungal disease pressure
    • Lowers vine vigour
    • And reduces vine yield and increase concentration in the fruit
  • & rain-bearing southerly winds.
  • 40 miles from north to south so southern areas get better ripening

2,350h of sunshine / 900mm rainfall

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48
Q

The topography and soils of Northern Rhone

A
  • Steep slopes (up to 460mRL) contribute to reinforce the climate’s influence + maximise sunlight
  • The steep slopes help the sunlight interception
  • Most appellations on the western bank of the river (better exposure)
  • Granite in best sites, very long north to south appellation, over 60 kilometres long
  • Steep slopes > soil erosion = constant threat.
  • The slopes also assist with water drainage
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49
Q

Viticulture of the Northern Rhone?

A
  • Differs across the long appellation of Northern Rhone
  • Most are on slopes with terraced vineyards
  • The manual labour on the slopes increases costs
  • Normally no mechanisation possible so vines individually staked
  • Low yields
  • Eroded soil often carted upslope via pulley system
  • 8000 vines/Ha.
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50
Q

Generic winemaking practices in nothern Rhone

A
  • Traditionally, long maceration & up to 3 years barrel aging for red wines - only top whites see oak
  • carbonic for cheaper wines
  • Tannin management via:
    • Picking at the right time & sorting
    • Cold soaking before fermentation for colour extraction mainly (not tannins)
    • Tannin extraction by lower temperature fermentation
    • Pumping over is watched to limit tannins too
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51
Q

Climate of Cote Rotie

A
  • Climate
    • Most northerly vineyards in Rhône.
    • Vineyards face south east/east so plenty of sun exposure
    • Protected from northerly Mistral winds
    • 500m hi & can be exposed to the sun all day + soil retains heat
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52
Q

Viticulture of Northern Rhone

A
  • Viticulture
    • Narrow terraces on south-east facing steep slopes
    • up to 60% gradient -> 2nd steepest vineyard slopes after Mosel
    • Totally manual vineyard maintenance
    • Max yield is 40hL/Ha.
    • Erosion is a constant problem – have to cart soil back up the hill
    • single or double guyot (cane) tied to one or more poles
    • Vineyard densities of 10,000/Ha. With maximum yield of 40hL/ha.
    • Famous vineyard sites
      • Côte Blonde:
        • sandy limestone over granite
        • racier wines, approachable early, 15yr lifespan
      • Côte Brune:
        • iron-bearing schist over granite >
        • more intense & tannic, not ready before 10yrs, 30yr lifespan
    • Revived by E. Guigal (La Mouline, La Landonne, La Turque)
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53
Q

Winemaking practices of Cote Rotie

A
  • Winemaking is typically:
    • Maximise aromatic potential, with destem, cold soak, and ferment at warm temp
    • Syrah co fermented with none or some Viognier, maybe 8% (up to 20% permitted), with Viognier adding floral and fruity aromas
    • Natural yeasts are frequently used
    • Malolactic fermentation in barrel
    • Barrels either barriques (Guigal) or demi-muids of 500-600 litres for 18-36 months
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54
Q

Describe the red wines of Cote Rotie

A
  • The wines are:
    • Generally deep coloured, intense dark fruits, violet & spice, velvety texture.
    • Not as full bodied, softer with pronounced aromas, compared to other N. Rhone AOCs
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55
Q

Condrieu - describe this AOC and its wines

A

Condrieu AC – 197ha 7400 hl 39hl/ha on average (●)

  • Steep south facing slopes w terraced vineyards
  • on low fertility soils of granite and decomposed mica (“arzelle”).
  • Constant ventilation prevents rot.
  • Wine must be 100% Viognier, maximum of 41hL/ha
  • Wines
    • Low acidity, high alcohol and flavours of peach, honeysuckle, apricot, rose water & candied citrus.
    • Best drunk within 5yrs.
    • Normally quite viscous texture
    • Full bodied
    • Pronounced aromatics
  • Typically
    • fermented in stainless steel or large wooden vessels
    • normally MLF is allowed
    • aged in barrel 10-12 months on lees with stirring
  • Guigal: ~40% of production
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56
Q

Chateau Grillet?

A
  1. Chateau Grillet AC – 3.5ha 62hl 21hl/ha on average(●)

o 1 vineyard, 1 owner

o Amphitheatre single estate with south-facing steep terraces made of granitic soils.

o Protected from northerly winds

o Grapes are picked earlier, fermented at hotter temperature with MLF and aged in wood for min. 6mths.

o More austere wines with longer ageing potential // Condrieu and command very high prices.

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57
Q

St Joseph - describe the AOC and its wines

A

St Joseph – 1,200ha 49 000 hl 40 hl/ha on avg (●●)

  • Grown on less steep banks on the western side of the Rhône
  • 50 km long appellation
  • Some sites not on the hillside and produce lower quality wines
  • Key producers are Jean-Louis Chave and Domaine Gonon
  • Lighter & fruitier style with blackcurrant & raspberry notes with some producing intense tannic style too
  • 90% red production; small percentage of whites from Marsanne mainly & a hint of Roussanne.
  • A small portion of the red wines can have white blended in but rarely happens – up to 10% of Marsanne/Roussanne
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58
Q

growing conditions of Crozes-Hermitage

A
  • Growing conditions
    • Mostly flat with less shelter from the Mistral wind.
    • Can be extremely cold in winter
    • Generally deeper soils, more fertile than Hermitage
    • Maximum yield is 45 hL/Ha
    • Flatter areas allow mechanisation – lowering costs
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59
Q

Wine production of Crozes Hermitage

A
  • Wine production
    • Wines have less concentration than Hermitage
    • 15% of whites grapes allowed in the blend but normally 100% Syrah
    • 91% red wine and 9% full bodied floral whites.
    • The cooperative ‘Cave de Tain’ produces high levels of Crozes-Hermitage
      • Sells about 40% of all Crozes-Hermitage AOC wines
  • Rest from négociants e.g. Jaboulet Ainé and estates like ‘Domaine de Thalabert’
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60
Q

winemaking of Crozes Hermitage

A
  • Winemaking is:
    • Commonly traditional fermentation on skins
    • Destemming is widely practised
    • Fermented in concrete, or stainless steel
    • Matured in SS tanks or large Oak vessels
    • White wines – aged in old wood, sometimes some proportion of new oak
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61
Q

Desribe the red wines of Crozes Hermitage

A
  • Red wines
    • is to be drunk early with medium tannins – can have some semi carbonic/carbonic maceration but rare these days
    • if to be aged then traditional destemmed/crushed fruit with traditional time on skins to extract more tannin is more likely
    • typically are softer and fruitier than Hermitage due to more fertile soils, slightly higher yields and the clay limestone soils that predominate the AOC
    • mid-priced – good to very good wines
    • some premium priced high quality wines
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62
Q

discuss the white wines of Croze Hermitage

A
  • White wines
    • Mainly Marsanne with little of Roussanne
    • Top examples aged in old wood, sometimes a portion in new oak
    • Some good to very good, mid to premium priced – some outstanding quality examples
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63
Q

Growing environment for Hermitage

A
  • Growing environment
    • Plantings on south facing steep ‘hill of Hermitage’ above town of Tain L’Hermitage
    • Eastern side of the Rhone – but where it turns easterly
    • Various climats with different altitudes, exposures & soil types.
    • Best sites are steep southerly slopes with sunshine all day & granitic soils.
    • Non-granitic soils used for whites
    • Most famous ‘climats’ for Syrah on Western end of hill – warmest part.
    • Erosion is a constant issue, increasing the cost of production
    • Terracing is needed in places
    • 1/3rd of vineyards dedicated to white wine production
64
Q

Red winemaking of Hermitage

A
  • Red winemaking:
    • Traditional methods used
    • Often stems included in ripe vintages
    • Warm fermentation temperature – to extract flavours and tannins
    • Lengthy oak maturation, 12-18 months
    • New oak is common but so are medium to large vessels
    • Wines
      • Deep intense powerful wines
      • approachable at 10+ years
      • and can age up to 30+ years.
      • The red wines are models of most structured and long lived Syrah wines

15% of whites grapes allowed in the blend but normally 100% Syrah

65
Q

White winemaking of Hermitage

A
  • White winemaking
    • top white made from Marsanne & Roussanne – predominantly Marsanne.
    • Fermentation in old wood vats, new or old barrels or stainless steel
    • Maturation in oak, with some new or Stainless steel
    • On lees for 10-12 months is typical
    • If aged in bottle, then develop rich, creamy, nutty flavours with great complexity
66
Q

The business of Hermitage - who are the main players

A
  • Business
    • Negociants of Chapoutier and Jaboulet Ainé dominate the holdings
    • Cooperative - Cave de Tain – owns 15% of the appellation
    • Jean-Louis Chave is an important producer
    • The quality of the wines are very good to outstanding – and prices to match
67
Q

The growing environment of Cornas

A
  • Growing environment
    • Northwest of Valence vineyards in south/east-facing amphitheatre (suntrap & protection from winds).
    • Granite soils on very steep terraces supported by small retaining walls.
    • Most southerly of red wine production AOCs – first to ripen normally
68
Q

the wine production of Cornas?

who are the key producers?

A
  • Wine production
    • Overtaken by neighbours Hermitage & Crozes Hermitage in popularity (no superstar producer).
    • Must be 100% Syrah.
    • Similar to Hermitage (full bodied & intense) but a bit more rustic & faster maturing (min 6-8 yrs and max 20).
    • Had a reputation for tannic intensity which producers tried to allay with time in small barrels to soften the tannins
    • Now a move back to producing longer lived robust wines
    • Jean-Luc Colombo introduced the use of new oak barrels & destemming in 80s
    • Quality is very good to outstanding with pricing premium to super premium
    • Key producers are:
      • Domaine Alain Voge
      • Domaine Vincent Paris
      • Domaine Auguste Clape
        • A traditionalist – uses big old oak (demi muids 500-600 litres)
        • And whole bunch fruit
        • No wonder Cornas was known for its tannin!
69
Q

The IGP that covers the Northern Rhone?

A

Collines Rhodaniennes IGP (‘hills of the Rhone’)

  • Used for red, white and rose
  • For wines made from grapes outside of the AOCs of Northern Rhone
  • Yields of 80 hL/Ha.
  • Allows wines from other varieties to be made
70
Q

List the key appellations of Southern Rhone

A

Cotes du Rhone / Cotes du Rhone Villages

Chateauneuf du Pape

Gigondas / Vacqueras

Tavel / Lirac

71
Q

What is the climate of Southern Rhone?

What are summers/winters like?

What are 2 risks of the climate?

What is the terrain like?

A

Mediterranean

Hot, dry summers tempered by wide diurnal swings.

Mild winters with heavy autumnal rains.

Risks - drought and vine damage from Mistral winds.

Terrain: Rugged garrigue scrubland that turns into a valley.

72
Q

How is Grenache usually trained and why?

A

Bush trained (Gobelet)

Gives protection from Mistral and increases warmth from stony soils

73
Q

What are the best soils in Southern Rhone?

A

Sand, gravel and clay, along with large stones called Galets

74
Q

What are the 5 key black grapes of the Southern Rhone?

A

Mostly Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre plus some Cinsault and Carignan

75
Q

What are the main differences in style between Northern and Southern Rhone wines?

A

Southern Rhone wines are typically richer, riper and higher in alcohol.

76
Q

What does Syrah bring to Southern Rhone blends?

A

Extra colour and tannin but struggles in hotter sites

77
Q

What does Mourvèdre bring to Southern Rhone blends?

A

Very high tannin, dense black fruit and meaty aromas Thrives in the heat

78
Q

What does Cinsault bring to Southern Rhone blends and what is it often used for?

A

Low tannin, red fruit flavours Often blended with Grenache to make fruity Rosé

79
Q

What 4 key factors are responsible for the broad differences in style of CNdP wines?

A
  1. Soil Types: Vastly varied over the appellation’s 3000 acres.
  2. Use of oak: Some age for a long time in old oak foudres, others in new barrique.
  3. Assemblage: Producers vary greatly in style when selecting from the 13 varieties allowed.
  4. Use of Carbonic Maceraton / New vinification techniques.
80
Q

How can Southern Rhone reds style vary?

A

From light / medium body, low tannin fresh fruity wines to high tannin, full body, spicy, meaty, earthy

81
Q

What white grapes are used in Southern Rhone?

A

White is minority production but Bourboulenc, Clairette and Grenache Blanc plus Northern Rhone trio; Viognier, Marsanne and Rousanne

82
Q

Whilst a minority interest what is the style of the best Southern Rhone white wines?

A

Rich texture, full body,

high alcohol, low acidity

subtle fruit, usually no oak

83
Q

How does Cotes du Rhone Villages differ from simple Cotes du Rhone?

A

Higher minimum alc

Lower Max yield limits

Higher % GSM

Generally more body, structure and spiced fruit

84
Q

Other than the wine what is Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s claim to fame?

A

The first region in France to be granted Appellation Controlee

85
Q

Which is the largest Cru in the Rhone?

A

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

86
Q

What is the terrain of Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

A

Very flat with a wide range of soils and aspects.

Many areas have Galets (big stones) on the surface.

87
Q

What does Tavel produce and what is it made from? What is its style?

A

Rosé only from mostly Grenache with some Cinsault Dry, Full body with intense flavour

88
Q

What is produced in Lirac?

A

Rosé from Grenache and Cinsault, similar to Tavel

Full bodied red and white in a similar style to Cotes du Rhone Villages wines.

89
Q

What is produced in Gigondas and Vacqueras?

What style are these wines similar to?

What is significant about these appellations?

A

Grenache led, full body, spicy reds

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

They were the first 2 Cotes-du-Rhone Villages to be promoted to AOC status.

90
Q

What are the 2 appellations for sweet, fortified wines in the Southern Rhone?

What are they classified as?

A

Muscat de-Beaumes-de-Venise and Rasteau.

“Vin Doux Naturel”

91
Q

How many grapes can be used to make Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

A

13 (or 18, depending on how you count them.)

92
Q

Why is Grenache well-suited for the Southern Rhone?

A

Able to tolerate droughts and strong winds.

Needs lots of heat to ripen fully, N. Rhone is too cool.

93
Q

Which Pope was responsible for moving the Papal court from Rome to Avignon?

Which Pope was responsible for planting the vineyards around Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

A

Pope Clement V

Pope John XXII

94
Q

Before it was referred to as Chateauneuf-du-Pape, what was wine from this area called?

A

Vin d’Avignon

95
Q

The Southern Rhone Valley accounts for __% of all wine production in the Rhone Valley.

A

95%

96
Q

What is the name of the “pudding stones” found in Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

What are they made from?

Why are they useful for viticulture?

A

“Galets”

Quartzite.

They store heat and release it to the vines at night.

97
Q

What are the 13 permitted varietals for Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

A
  1. Grenache (noir/gris/blanc).
  2. Syrah.
  3. Mouvedre.
  4. Terret Noir.
  5. Cinsault.
  6. Counoise.
  7. Picpoul (noir/gris/blanc).
  8. Bourboulenc.
  9. Clairette/Clairette Rosé.
  10. Roussanne.
  11. Vacarese.
  12. Picardin.
  13. Muscardin.
98
Q

How many villages may append their name to Cotes-du-Rhone Villages wines?

A

20

99
Q

What is “Le Râpé” in Chateauneuf-du-Pape law?

What is its purpose?

A

An AOC mandate that producers must discard/declassify at least 2% of harvested grapes.

Its purpose is to safeguard against underripness.

100
Q

Grenache was imported to France from what country?

A

Spain

101
Q

Where does the Chateau de Beaucastel estate primarily produce wine?

What is noteworthy about their wine?

A

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

The red is based on Mouvedre and includes every permitted varietal in CNdP.

102
Q

Where does the Chateau Rayas estate primarily produce wine?

What is noteworthy about their wine?

A

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Their CNdP red is 100% Grenache.

103
Q

What is the minimum abv allowed for

Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOP?

A

12.5%

104
Q

In which region is the Cote du Vivarais AOP located?

A

Southern Rhone

105
Q

Most Cotes du Rhone AOP red wines must have 30% Grenache. When is an exception allowed?

A

The rule does not apply to vineyards north of Montélimar.

106
Q

Put these Southern Rhone appellations in order from North to South:

Gigondas

Luberon

Tavel

Vacqueyras

Grignan-les-Adhémar

Lirac

A
  1. Grignan-les-Adhémar.
  2. Gigondas.
  3. Vacqueyras.
  4. Lirac
  5. Tavel
  6. Luberon
107
Q

Chateau Rayas owns 2 other properties.

What are they and where are they located?

A

Chateau des Tours: Vacqueyras

Chateau de Fonsalette: Cotes-du-Rhone

108
Q

What is the minimum % of Grenache required for Vacqueyras AOP wine?

A

50%

109
Q

Is Chateauneuf-du-Pape East or West of the Rhone?

A

East

110
Q

Describe the

Body

Acidity

Alcohol

of Chateauneuf-du-Pape red wine.

A

Full body.

Medium Acidity.

High alcohol.

111
Q

What types of wines are produced in St.-Peray?

From which grapes?

A

Still white and traditional method sparkling (mousseux) from Marsanne and Roussanne.

112
Q

What is “Vin de Paille”?

Where is it commonly found?

A

“Straw wine”, sweet wine made from grapes that have been dried on straw mats.

Made in Hermitage

113
Q

What grape is used for Chateau de Beaucastel Vieilles Vigne Blanc?

A

Roussanne

114
Q

What AOP unknowingly served as the entry for phylloxera into France in the 1860s?

A

Lirac

115
Q

Vieux Telegraphe is associated with which wine/vineyard area?

A

Rhone South/Chateauneuf de Pape

116
Q

Where is the producer Chateau la Nerthe located?

What is the name of their prestige cuvée?

A

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Cuvée des Cadettes

117
Q

What is the prestige cuvée of Chateau de Beaucastel?

A

Hommage a Jacques Perrin

118
Q

Domaine du Pegau is a producer located in:

Their winemaking style is considered:

Their top cuvée made from old-vine selections is:

A

Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone Valley

Very traditional style, wines made for long-term aging, no de-stemming or filtration, aging in old foudres for 18 months.

“Cuvée da Capo”

119
Q

What kind of wine is produced in Beaumes-de-Venise and from which grape?

A

Red wine from at least 50% Grenache.

120
Q

Clairette de Bellegarde is a single commune appellation within which larger appellation?

A

Costiere de Nimes

121
Q

Which appellation accounts for 48% of production in the Rhone.

A

Cotes-du-Rhone

122
Q
A
123
Q

Climate of southern Rhone?

A
  • Hot Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers & most of the rain in the winter (23°C avg July temp)
  • 2,750hours of sunshine
  • 700mm rainfall;
  • Northerly Mistral wind generally chases away diseases
124
Q

Soils and topograhy of southern Rhone

A

Flat with rolling hills – but with higher hills to the east, in Gigondas, Seguret, Vacqueyras

Some vineyards covered in stones which retain heat.

Mainly clay, limestone & alluvial soils.

125
Q

Grenache varietal

A

key red varietal in southern Rhone

early budding and late ripening

needs a warm to hot climate to ripen fully

tendency to high alcohol and hi sugar

typically low tannins, pale to medium ruby colour, sweet red fruits

126
Q

Mourvedre

A

needs a long ripening season - hot climate to fully ripen

gives structure, intense fruit and ageability to the wine

ripe and earthy when young, meaty and smoky with age

127
Q

Viticulture in the southern Rhone

A
  • Wind breaks key to protect vines from Mistral (no natural barrier)
  • Low pruning increases ripening from reflected heat
  • Bush spur-pruned for Grenache and others except Syrah
  • Syrah is tied to wires on trellises instead
  • 4000 vines/ha (lack of water – means lower density possible)
  • Irrigation allowable in severe drought conditions
  • Mechanisation is possible due to flatter topography
128
Q

Vinsobres

A

Vinsobres 580 ha (●)

  • New AOC – 2006 (previously a named village within Cote du Rhone Villages AOC)
  • South/South East facing slopes 200-500 metres
  • Some protection from Mistral
  • Only red wines
  • Dominant Grenache Noir but more Syrah being planted
  • Must be 50% Grenache Noir with at least one Syrah or Mourvèdre
129
Q

Two winemaking approaches used in the Southern Rhone?

A
  • Carbonic maceration used for early drinking styles
  • Traditional fermentation (after crushing/destemming) with long oak aging
130
Q

Hierarchy of Rhone AOCs?

A

The hierarchy is:

  • Cotes du Rhone AOC
  • Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC
  • Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC + named village – i.e. Seguret
  • Individual AOCs for top villages – known as cru – Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas AOC
131
Q

Cote du Rhone - the largest AOC in the Rhone - all the details including what do the red wines look like?

A

Côte du Rhône – 33,510ha – 48% of overall Rhône production (●●●)

min 60% is GSM, min 30% Grenache, and min 20% is Syrah & Mourvedre

max yield is 51 hL/Ha.

  • Can be produced in Northern & Southern Rhône but vast majority produced in Southern Rhône
  • Covers all vineyard land suitable for grapegrowing in the Rhone – excluding the ‘other Rhone appellations’
  • SECOND LARGEST AOC after Bordeaux AOC – over 33,000 Ha.
  • Requirements: see below
  • Most wines from flat, wind-swept vineyards with light & fruity style (some carbonic maceration)
  • Only 4% white wine & 7% rosé.
  • ¾ of production made by cooperatives.
  • Red Cote du Rhone
    • Medium intensity ruby colour
    • Medium intensity red plum, blackberry fruit
    • No oak flavours
    • Medium acidity
    • Medium tannin (to low if carbonic maceration)
    • Medium alcohol
    • Good quality and inexpensive in price
132
Q

Cote du Rhone villages AOC?

A

Côte du Rhône villages – 11% of total production (●●)

  • Step up in quality with villages able to be promoted to full AOCs afterwards (e.g. Vinsobres)
  • Similar rules to Cote du Rhone from above but:
    • Max 45hl/ha yield
    • Min 66% of the three principal varieties (Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah)
    • Must have Grenache in it
    • Min 12.5% abv

Vinsobres promoted to AOC in 2006 as well as Beaumes de Venise, Cairanne, Rasteau.

133
Q

Cote du Rhone Villages + named village - how is it different to Cote du Rhone Villages?

A

lower max. yield of 42 hL/Ha.

134
Q

the southern Rhone crus? how much are they of production and what is max yield allowed

A

12% of total production

30 hL/Ha. - pretty low

135
Q

Gigondas?

A

Gigondas – 1,200ha (●●)

  • Dry, hot climate w 2,800h of sunshine; mostly on limestone & clay slopes up to 600m high.
  • The lower temperature from elevation has been invaluable in hot growing seasons
  • Up against the Dentelles de Montmirail
  • Requirements:
    • Must be over 50% Grenache
    • Syrah & Mourvèdre are popular blending partners
  • Similar style as Châteauneuf du Pape but less structure. Mature around 10yrs.
  • 99% red; 1% rosé
  • Good to very good quality – mid-priced
136
Q

Vacqueyras

A

Vacqueyras – 1,400ha (●●●)

  • Next to Gigondas, but not as high, up to 440 metres
  • On the slopes up against Dentelles de Montmirail
  • Similar soils to Gigondas
  • Promoted to cru in 1990
  • Requirements:
    • minimum 50% Grenache
    • at least one of Syrah or Mourvedre
    • max. yield of 36 hL/Ha.
  • Wines are concentrated and a bit more rustic than Gigondas. Mature around 3-6 yrs.
  • 95% red 4% white 1% rosé
  • Good to very good quality – mid priced
137
Q

Rasteau AOC?

A

Rasteau 950 ha (●)

  • Made a red wine AOC in 2010 (known for VDN wines)
  • Low south facing slopes (100mRL), sheltered from mistral
  • Warm growing enclave
  • Irrigation allowed within limits
  • Grenache at least 50% plus at least one of Syrah or Mourvèdre
  • Wine style is ripe full bodied wines
138
Q

Cairanne AOC?

A

Cairanne AOC

· Newly created in 2015

· Not as steep as Gigondas or as warm as Rasteau

· Wines

o Mainly red wines

o Fruity and approachable style

o Principal variety Grenache Noir (40% min) plus at least one of Syrah or Mourvedre

139
Q

Beaumes de Venise AOC

A

Beaumes de Venise 635 ha (●●)

  • AOC allowed unfortified still red wine in 2005
  • Slightly shaded by the Dentelles de Montmirail
  • Wines
    • Grenache Noir principal variety with Syrah – together must be 50% of blend
    • Yield max. 38 hL/Ha
140
Q

AOC rules for Chateauneuf du Pape?

A
  • AOC rules
    • 13 varieties allowed - mainly Grenache, Cinsaut, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Muscardin, Counoise, Clairette, Bourboulenc (plus 5 colour variants of these)
    • Note – Viognier and Marsanne not allowed
    • NO RESTRICTION ON VARIETAL PERCENTAGES
    • Single varietal wines such as Rayas Chateauneuf (100% Grenache) are allowed
    • Min alc. 12.5% (no chaptalisation allowed)
    • Allows reds and whites to be made
    • Grapes must be picked by hand
    • No Rose is allowed!
141
Q

the vineyards of Chateauneuf soil types?

A
  • Vineyards
    • Many soils but galets roules (large pebbles) famous for retaining the day’s heat and redistributing it at night
    • Soils are low fertility and generally free draining which gives small crops of ripe grapes
    • The area is generally flat
    • In truth there is a large variety of soil types
    • ‘La Crau’ – famous plateau with galets roules (rounded stones) on top with moist clay underneath – the galets roules reflecting the sun and helping to ripen the fruit
142
Q

What are the typical varietals and wines made from the Chateauneuf du Pape?

A
  • Most wines are:
    • Red – Grenache Noir with Syrah and Mourvèdre
    • White – Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Roussanne
    • It is a large appellation so many variations
    • Typically the red wines have:
      • Medium acidity, high alcohol, tannins – med(-) to high
      • Notes of ripe red plums, blackberry and spice
      • Some new oak is used
      • Quality – good to outstanding and Price – mid priced to super premium
    • Typically the white wines have:
      • Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne mainly
      • Variation in winemaking techniques:
        • some oak fermentation with ageing in either tanks or oak barrels – some new oak
        • OR preserve freshness and primary fruit character
        • Current trend is to make wines fresher and more aromatic and floral
143
Q

In CNDP what difference does the soil make to the wines?

A

Lighter, more elegant wines from sandy soils versus more structured wines from stony soils

144
Q

blending across CNDP is done because?

A
  • Cross blending across ‘lieux-dits’ is needed to create complexity and commercial blend sizes
145
Q

What is the helicopter view of CNDP winemaking styles by three

A
  • Négociant style:
    • carbonic maceration
    • more fruity with soft tannins
    • -> wines ready to drink earlier
  • Modern:
    • shorter maceration & time in wood
    • -> approachable early but can age
    • e.g. Chateau de Beaucastel, Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe
  • Traditional:
    • late harvesting, high proportions of Grenache, higher alcohol, more extraction, time needed to be approachable
    • 4yrs élevage (2 cement / 2 old oak)
    • e.g. Bosquet des Papes
146
Q

The wine % of CNDP ? and are cooperatives important?

A
  • Wine Business
    • 93% reds;
    • 7% of whites made from Clairette, Grenache blanc, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Picpoul, Picardan.
    • Cooperatives are still important here but independent domaines have raised the bar of quality and the reputation of the region
147
Q

Lirac AOC?

A

Lirac – 771ha (●●●)

  • 85% red 10% white 3% rosé
  • West bank of the Rhône at similar level to Châteauneuf du Pape
  • Grapegrowing
    • Soils are infertile and well drained
    • High sunlight hours
  • Winemaking
    • Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvèdre – and Cinsaut
    • Together the principal varieties must make up 90% of the final blend
    • Robust & meaty reds; heady rosés.
    • The red wines are noticeably softer and earlier maturing than Chateauneuf du Pape
    • But some high quality focussed producers are making very good examples
  • Wine business
    • Domaine de la Mordoree is a noted producer
    • Most producers have links to Chateauneuf du Pape which is just across the river
    • Quality has increased in recent years
148
Q

Tavel AOC

A

Tavel – 780 ha (●)

  • Western side of the Rhone river
  • At the same latitude as Chateauneuf du Pape
  • Flat to gently sloping vineyards
  • Wines
    • Makes solely Rose wines
    • full bodied, intensely fruity rosés mainly from Grenache & Cinsaut.
    • Final blend must include Grenache Noir
    • Noticeably deeper in colour – pink/salmon rather than the orange Provence Rose
    • Quality is good to very good and price - mid-priced to premium
  • AOC Laws
    • 12 principal varieties – but final blend must include Grenache Noir
    • Max. yield is 46 hL/Ha.
    • None of the principal varieties can be more than 60% - i.e. must be a blend
149
Q

Ventoux AOC

A

A. Ventoux – 5,700ha (●●)

  • 2/3rd Red and 1/3rd Rose – very small amount of white wine made
  • Growing environment
    • Vineyards situated on west & south slopes of Mont Ventoux up to 450m high
    • cooler w hi diurnal range
  • Wines
    • Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Cinsaut – 2 must be included and be 50% of the final wine
    • The wines, mainly reds, are fresh and fruity with a marked acidity.
    • The relatively high yield allowed makes lighter styles of wine
    • 60 hL/Ha maximum yield
  • Good to very good quality, with pricing inexpensive to mid priced
150
Q

Luberon AOC

A

B. Luberon – 3,300ha (●●)

  • 35% red 19% white 46% rosé
  • High amount of Rose made here
  • Gentle slopes or flat land
  • South east of the Rhone valley – bordering Provence
  • Vineyards
    • on the slopes of Lubéron hills w slightly cooler climate
  • Wines
    • for light, fruity reds and round & fruity whites
    • Max. yield of 55 hL/Ha.
    • Good to very good quality – with pricing inexpensive to mid priced
151
Q

Costieres de Nimes?

A

C. Costières de Nîmes – 4000Ha. (●●●)

  • 2/3rd red 1/3rd rosé and a small amount of white wine
  • The south western margin of the Rhone region (borders Languedoc)
  • One of the hottest climate in France
    • South west slopes so good sunlight interception
    • Some cooling breezes from Mediterranean
  • Soils covered with stones (similar to Châteauneuf du Pape)
  • Wines
    • 50% most be either Grenache Noir, Syrah or Mourvedre, singly or together
    • Good to very good quality – inexpensive to mid-priced
    • Max 60 hL/Ha. Yield
152
Q

Grignan les Adhemar?

A
  1. Grignan-les-Adhemar
    • Northern appellation of the Southern Rhone
    • Name change in 2010
    • Wines
      • Mainly red blends – minimum of 50% Syrah and Grenache Noir
      • Lighter style than the more southerly Rhone appellations
      • Higher acidity compared to southern Rhone appellations
153
Q

Who are the large Negociants who operate across north and south Rhone?

A
  • many large Negociants operate across north and south Rhone
    • E. Guigal
    • Jaboulet
    • Chapoutier
    • The above are all examples of this
154
Q

Are cooperatives important in the Rhone?

A
  • Cooperatives are more important in the south than the north
    • Cellier des Princes – large cooperative in Chateauneuf du Pape
    • Cave de Tain (in Tain l’Hermitage) an important Northern Rhone cooperative makes 40% of all Crozes-Hermitage AOC wines
155
Q

Sales domestically and export?

A
  • Sales
    • 35% export
    • Domestic
      • 33% supermarkets
      • 25% specialist wine retail
      • 7% discounters

WSET D3 from Sam (33 decks)

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