Rhône Valley Flashcards
What is the Mistral Effect?
Dries the Vineyard, eases fungal pressure
What are the five appellations that produced Syrah based wine?
- Cornas AOP (100% Syrah)
- Côte Rôtie AOP (up to 20% Viognier)
- Hermitage AOP (15% Marsanne, Roussanne)
- Crozes-Hermitage AOP (15% Mars, Rous)
- Saint-Joseph AOP (10% Mars, Rous)
Soil type in Northern Rhône
Granite and Schist
Notable types:
- Arzelle in Condrieu (decomposed mica)
- Clay Soils in Saint Joseph, Crozes Hermitage, Saint Péray
How is the northern topography different in the Ehone Valley?
North: Steep hills, Rhône River (Light, Temp), concentration of the mistral effect
South: Rolling Hills, Rhône cools
Soil in the Northern and Southern Rhône
- decomposed granite, schist
- galets, alluvial, limestone
Most important Southern Rhône Appellations
- Côtes du Rhône AOP
- Côtes du Rhône Villages AOP
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOP
- Gigondas AOP
- Vacqueyras AOP
- Beaumes-de-Venise AOP
- Vinsobres AOP
- Cairanne AOP
What are the sweet wines produced in the Southern Rhône?
- Muscat de Beaumes de Venise: VDN from Muscat à Petit Grains
- Rasteau (AOP): VDN either tawny oxidized or fresh
Whats the minimum ABV for CdP?
12.5%
Which region co-ferments more and why
Northern Rhône
- color stability (whites help fix the red color)
- enhances aromatic complexity
- softens tannins
- adds freshness and balance
- traditional practice
Strengths and Weakness of Grenache
Pro:
High Alc Potential
Rich and fruity flavour
Drought resistant
Excellent blending Grape: brings warmth and fruitness
Adaptable to soil types
Aging Potential
Con:
Oxidation Sensitivity
Low Tannins and Structure
Susceptibility to Disease
Lack of Color
High Alc, low Acid
Yields can be too high
Jean Louis Chave
Michel Chapoutier
E. Guigal
Château Beaucastel
Château Rayas
