Rhone Valley Intro

Question 1

What is the predominant climate of the Northern Rhone?

What is the predominant soil?

Answer 1

Rhone River moderating effect
Continental climate
(dry, very hot summers, very cold winters)
Mistral winds

Granite and Schist Soils

Question 2

What are the most important grapes of the Northern Rhone?

Answer 2

Syrah

Viognier/Marsanne/Roussane

Question 3

What are some important viticulture and viniculture factors of the Northern Rhone

Answer 3

Vineyards on steep slopes
Vines staked to the ground to protect from the Mistral wind

Oak usage on whites and reds
New French oak
Large, older barrels