Rhône Valley - France - CMS Intro Somm Flashcards
Where do the Northern Rhône’s vineyards run?
Along a narrow band on both sides of the Rhône River
Where do the Northern Rhône’s vineyards begin?
About 15 miles south of Lyon
How long do the vineyards of the Northern Rhône extend?
Roughly 50 miles
What towns bookend the Northern Rhône vineyards?
Vienne in the north and Valence in the south
The Northern Rhône’s vineyards run along which geographical feature?
Rhône River
What type of climate characterizes the Northern Rhône?
Continental
The climate is influenced by the Rhône River and Mistral winds.
Where does the Rhône River originate?
Switzerland
How does the Rhône River influence the climate of Northern Rhône’s vineyards?
Warming adjacent slopes and reflecting sunlight up to the vines
It is a climate moderator
What are Mistral winds in the context of Northern Rhône?
A prominent airflow that begins in Switzerland near the mouth of the river, picking up speed as it heads south into France.
How do Mistral Winds affect the Northern Rhône?
It slightly warms the area and dries the climate, helping prevent mildew and other molds.
Describe the topography of the vineyards of the Northern Rhône.
Steep hillside vineyards
What types of soil are found in the Northern Rhône?
Granite and Schist
List the white grape varieties cultivated in the Northern Rhône.
- Viognier
- Marsanne
- Roussanne
What is the primary red grape variety in the Northern Rhône?
Syrah
How are vineyards in Northern Rhône typically managed in the context of viticulture?
- Planted on steep slopes overlooking the river
- Vines are often staked to the ground protect from Mistral winds and erosion
The steep grade makes vineyard work challenging.
What historical features are maintained in Northern Rhône vineyards?
Terraces built in Roman times
These terraces permit work in the vineyards, which is perilous.
What style of wine is dominant in the Northern Rhône?
Single-variety wines
Fewer blends than most French regions
In what types of vessels are both red and white Northern Rhône wines typically fermented and aged?
Oak, often in large oak foudres
Some producers also use stainless steel and then age wines in a combination of new and used oak vessels.
What is co-fermentation in the context of Northern Rhône winemaking?
Blending small percentages of white grapes with Syrah
Increases aromatic complexity and reduces tannin prominence.
What are the appellations of the Northern Rhône?
- Côte-Rôtie
- Condrieu
- Saint-Joseph
- Crozes-Hermitage
- Hermitage
- Cornas
What type of wines does Côte-Rôtie, Northern Rhône produce?
Red wines only – Syrah with a maximum of 20% Viognier
What is the maximum percentage of Viognier allowed in Côte-Rôtie red wines?
20%
Blended with Syrah
What type of wines are produced in Condrieu, Northern Rhône?
White wines only
What grape variety is used in 100% of Condrieu, Northern Rhône wines?
Viognier
