Roussillon Flashcards
Roussillon
Extending northward from the Spanish border, is singularly important for vin doux naturel production
Over 90% of France’s fortified wines are made in the region.
Rivesaltes AOP
The birthplace of vin doux naturel
Meaning “high rivers” in Catalan.
Produces fortified ambre (amber), grenat (Red), tuile (tawny), and rose (pink).
May be varietal wines or blends. Grenache (Noir, Gris, and Blanc), Maccabéo, Tourbat, Muscat of Alexandria, and Muscat a Petits Grains.
Muscat de Rivesaltes AOP
When the wine is solely from the two Muscat varieties.
This sweet wine is typically released earlier and is better suited for youthful consumption, as the wine quickly loses its aromatic freshness.
Arnaud de Villeneuve
A 13th century physician who introduced the process of mutage as a means of medicinal elixir brewing.
Maury AOP
Produces vin doux naturel in a range of styles.
Principally produced from Grenache Noir, Blanc, and Gris.
Banyuls AOP
The southernmost wine appellation in continental France.
Grenache Noir accounts for at least 50% of the traditional fortified reds.
France’s richest, most full bodied, and most consistently quality minded VDN appellation.
Banyuls Grand Cru AOP
Requires at least 75% Grenache Noir.
Must spend a minimum 30 months in barrel.
If destined to be vintage-dated, it is generally bottled within one year and labeled RIMAGE
Côtes du Roussillon Les Aspres
Devised expressly for superior wines from those villages not included in Côtes du Roussillon-Villages.
Collioure
Traditionally home to artist and anchovy-packers.
Dry wines from Banyuls vineyards are called after the pretty fishing port of Collioure.
Powerful white Collioure is also made, usually from Grenache Blanc and Gris.