South of France Flashcards

1
Q

What are the three areas covered in WSET under SOuth of France?

A

LAnguedoc, Roussillon and Provence

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What are the two parts of the former administrative region of Languedoc-Roussillon that since 2016 has been part of the Occitainie admistrative region?

A

Languedoc = departments of Aude, Herault and Gard

Roussillon - Department of Pyrenees-Orientales

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

How many ha under vine does Languedoc-Roussillon have?

A

240,000 (220,000 are in Languedoc)
more than the individual countries of Chile, Australia, or South Africa

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What is a common feature for Provence, Languedoc and Roussillon?

A

low yields for AOC wines due to low rainfall and a warm windy climate causing high rates of evapotranspiration

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Which region had the lowest yields of all French regions (roughly 1/2 of Champagne or Alsace) between 2005-2015

A

Languedoc-Roussillon

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Where is the Languedoc located?

A

mainly located on a low lying alluvial plain however recently more ambitious growers are reclaiming vineyards on hillside slopes with the intention of creating higher quality wines

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is the climate of Languedoc?

A

Mediterranean

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What are the grape varieties found in Languedoc?

A

local varieties (Piquepoul) and those found in the south of France including in Rhone Valley (Syrah, Grenache Noir and Carignan)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What is produced as a large vol in Languedoc?

A

IGP level wines especially those produced from and labelled as single varieties

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What is some historical facts of Languedoc?

A

it was both Greek and Roman colony, as well as the site of many monasteries in the middle ages.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What transformed Languadoc’s fortunes in the late 17th Century

A

the building of the Canal du Midi which connected it to Bordeaux enabling wines to be efficiently transported to export markets and to Paris making grape growing an important part of the region’s economy

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

When did co-operatives become important in Languedoc

A

in the 1950s when they accounted for 90% of the total production (today they account for 70% of production)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What happened post 1973 when France no longer sourced wine from Algeria?

A

Languedoc and Roussillon together became the largest source of everyday wine in France

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What led to the removal of vineyards in Languedoc?

A

overproduction in relation to demand

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Describe the climate in Languedoc?

A

Mediterranean with high levels of sunshine, rainfall below 600 mm a year, and very warm summers

very favorable for grape growing

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What helps to keep spraying at minimum in Languedoc?

A

low moisture levels, cool dry Tramontane north west wind that blows for about 200 days per year means there is low disease pressure from fungal disease

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

How is certified organic wine production possible in Languedoc?

A

due to the climate helping to not have the need for spraying

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What type of grape varieties are grown in Langedoc?

A

most are black - top varieties are Carignan, Syrah, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsault

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What is the advantage of Carignan budding late and ripening late?

A

avoids spring frosts, but needs to be grown in a warm climate with a long ripening season

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What kind of yields does Carignan produce>

A

it can produce high yields (200 hl/ha) which made it popular in the past when the vol of production was the most sought after characteristic

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What happens if Carignan is allowed to produce at its potential yield?

A

there is low flavor intensity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What has to happen in order to have Carignan produce wines of high concentration

A

yields need to be sharply reduced - which happens naturally when vines become old (50 yrs or more)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What is Carignan prone to?

A

powdery mildew and grape moths

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Is Carignan typically hand or machine harvested? why?

A

not machine-harvested due to the bunches being firmly attached to the vine

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

What are Carignan grapes high in?

A

tannins and acidity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

How do winemakers soften tannins and acidity in Carignan wines?

A

carbonic maceration or by blending with other varieties

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

General SAT for Carignan wines in Languedoc

A

(besides from very old vines unoaked)
med ruby
simple blackberry fruit
high acidity
high tannins
acceptable to good
inexpensive
Some very good or outstanding quality have intense black fruit with spice, earthy notes and can attract premium and super premium prices

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

Historically how were vines grown in Languedoc? why?

A

bush vines and some still remain - well adapted to the climate providing some shade to the bunches

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

Historically how were vines grown in Languedoc? why?

A

bush vines and some still remain - well adapted to the climate providing some shade to the bunches, but work must be done by hand

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

HOw have many new vineyards been planted in recent decades in Languedoc?

A

with trellises enabling a high degree of mechanization reducing costs

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

HOw are IGP wines harvested in LAnguedoc? AOC wines?

A

IGP wines = machine
AOC = can also be machine harvested where the topography allows

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
32
Q

For inexpensive wines on Languedoc where is winemaking carried out?

A

in large concrete or stainless steel tanks

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
33
Q

What kind of yeasts are used for Languedoc wines?

A

cultured yeasts to ensure rapid and complete fermentation and a consistent style

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
34
Q

How are most inexpensive red wines made in Languedoc?

A

by crushing the grapes and fermenting them on their skins for 5-7 days to limit the extraction of tannins

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
35
Q

What temperatures are used for fermentation in Languedoc wines?

A

mid range temps to preserve primary flavors

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
36
Q

How long and where are the wines stored after fermentation in Languedoc?

A

for a few months in stainless steel or concrete tanks

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
37
Q

Are Languedoc wines made to age or be drank early?

A

they are made for early drinking but they will hold for 2-3 years

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
38
Q

How is carbonic maceration used in Languedoc?

A

to produce fruity wines with med to deep color and low tannins esp with tannic varietals such as Carignan

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
39
Q

What type of temperature is used for fermentation in LAnguedoc?

A

mid range temps to preserve primary flavors

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
40
Q

What types of vessels are used to store wines in Languedoc and for how long?

A

stainless steel or concrete tanks are used for a few months of storage

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
41
Q

Are Languedoc wines made for aging or early drinking?

A

the vast majority of them are made for early drinking however some high quality ones are made for aging as well.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
42
Q

What are some differences found in Languedoc with how high quality wines are made

A

more use of sorting tables, fermentation at warm temperatures, more use of ambient yeasts, and of barriques for the maturation of the wines. some experimentation is being done with concrete tanks and eggs and large-format oak vats

these wines are meant to age in the bottle

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
43
Q

How much of the production of Languedoc wines do IGP wines represent?

A

70%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
44
Q

what are the regulations for IGP Languedoc?

A

more flexible than AOC
max yields are 90 hl/ha for red and white
max yields are 100 hl/ha for rose
wide range of varieties total of 58 may be used

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
45
Q

What has been the root of Languedoc’s commercial success over the last three decaded?

A

IGP category due to attractive inexpensive price brand

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
46
Q

What are the 3 forms of IGP in France

A

Regional = for the whole Languedoc-Roussillon region
Departmental = IGP Gard - Gard being a French admin depart
Smaller unit named after a historical or geographical feature

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
47
Q

What is the largest producer of IGP wines in France?

A

IGP Pays D’Oc - this single IGP produces between 10-15% of all French wine depending on the vintage

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
48
Q

How are IGP wines divided up by color?

A

just over half are red
a over quarter white
and just under a quarter rose

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
49
Q

Describe a typical IGP wine In France?

A

fresh, fruity expression of the variety being used with little or no use of oak for maturing the wine.

good to very good in quality
inexpensive to midpriced

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
50
Q

What are the top 4 varieties grown and mainly used for single variety wines in IGP wines of France?

A

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Syrah

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
51
Q

What are the top seven varieties grown by percentage in Vol of IGP in France

A

Merlot = 21%
Cab Sauv = 14%
Chardonnay = 12%
Syrah = 11%
Grenache Noir - 8%
Sauvignon Blanc = 7%
Cinsault = 6%
other varieties = 21%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
52
Q

How much of othe production of IGP Pays d’Oc sold

A

in France mostly in supermarkets but hospitality sales are also significant

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
53
Q

What are the top three export markets for IGP Pays d’Oc

A

Germany, Netherlands and belgium

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
54
Q

How much red wines account for production in all appellations in South of France except for the white wine-only appellations?

A

90%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
55
Q

In all cases what do Languedoc AOCs for red wine require for varieties?

A

min of two varieties including one or more of the principal varieties

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
56
Q

What two appellations are the exception to Languedoc’s rule of requiring the use of Grenache Noir?

A

Cabardes AOC and Malepere AOC

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
57
Q

What other two varieties besides grenache Noir, do most Languedoc AOC require to be part of the blend?

A

Syrah, and Mourvedre

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
58
Q

What is the principal grape varietal in Cabardes AOC and Malepere AOC

A

Carignan

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
59
Q

Can rules for sub zones be different to the parent appellations in South of France?

A

yes

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
60
Q

Can different percentages be set for varieties in the vineyard and in the final wine in South of France?

A

Yes - the AOC might require 50% of the variety in the vineyard but only 40% of the same variety in the final wine allowing producers some flexibility

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
61
Q

What can unused grapes in South of France be used for?

A

other wines (ex rose), IGP wines, or made as Vin de France

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
62
Q

What are typical max yields for South of France?

A

45-50 l/ha

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
63
Q

What are the max yields for Languedoc AOC?

A

reds = 50 hl/ha
whites = 60 hl/ha

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
64
Q

What are the three groupings of the Languedoc in terms of style, price, and quality

A

Regional appellation (ex Languedoc AOC)
Named Appellation (Corbieres AOC)
sub appellation (Corbieres-Boutenac AOC)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
65
Q

Describe Rsgional appellation for Languedoc?

A

wines typically have medium intensity in aroma and flavor, simple blackberry, and red plum fruit, with med tannins, acidity, alcohol and body
acceptable to good
inexpensive to mid priced

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
66
Q

Describe named appellations for Languedoc?

A

typically have med to med + intensity in aroma and flavor with blackberry and red plum fruit with herb notes (lavender and rosemary)
med tannins
med to med+ acidity
med to high alcohol
med + to full body
minority of wines have oak aromas
good to very good with some outstanding examples
inexpensive to premium priced wines

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
67
Q

Describe sub appellations

A

typically have med + to pronounced aromas and flavors and med+ tannins
very good quality with some outstanding examples
mostly mid priced with some premium examples

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
68
Q

What is the fourth largest appellation in france?

A

Corbieres

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
69
Q

Where is Corbieres appellation found?

A

hilly appellation in southwest of Narbonne

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
70
Q

How many ha does Corbieres have?

A

over 10,000

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
71
Q

What are the two key mountain ranges in Corbieres that provide sites for vineyards?

A

Tauch and D’Alaric

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
72
Q

How high are the slopes of Tauch and D’Alaric in Corbieres

A

up to 450m

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
73
Q

How do the Tauch and D’Alaric mountains help grapes?

A

the cooling influence of altitude and cold northernly winds helps to retain acidity in grapes.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
74
Q

How much red wine by volume is produced in Corbieres?

A

nearly 90%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
75
Q

What does the final wine in Corbieres need to be made up of?

A

at least 40% must be any of the principal grape varietals - Carignan, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, and Syrah with the remainder being from other permitted grape varieties including Cinsault (max 20%)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
76
Q

what are the max yields in Corbieres

A

for red, white and rose = 50 hl/ha

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
77
Q

What varietals does the subregion of Corbieres Boutenac AOC require?

A

Carignan, Grenache Noir, and Mourvedre to make up 70% of the blend.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
78
Q

How much of Corbieres wines are sold domestically?

A

70%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
79
Q

What markets in France are Corbieires wines sold?

A

supermarkets

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
80
Q

How much of Corbieres wines are exported? and what are the leading export markets?

A

30% - China, Germany, Belgium

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
81
Q

What varietals are used to make rose and white wines in Corbieres AOC?

A

Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, or Rolle (Vermentino)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
82
Q

Describe Minervois AOC

A

extensive appellation with a range of climatic zones based on altitude and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
83
Q

Whay style wines are found in Minervois AOC?

A

mostly reds, but also rose and whites

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
84
Q

What are most red and rose wines made from in Minervois AOC?

A

Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Mourvedre - together with these and Cinsault and Carignan must be 50% of the final blend with no blend exceeding 80%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
85
Q

What styles of wines are found in Minervois La Liviniere AOC?

A

red wine only

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
86
Q

Where is Minervois La Liviniere AOC situated?

A

limestone terrace of gentle slopes at up to 400 m of altitude giving it good drainage exposure to the sun and some cooling influences from altitude

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
87
Q

What do the cooling temperatures in Minervois La Liviniere AOC lead to?

A

higher acidity levels

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
88
Q

describe what the make up of the wines is in Minervois La Liviniere AOC?

A

Syrah, Mourvedre and Grenache Noir must make up at least 40 % and these plus Carignan and CInsault must make up at least 80% of the blend

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
89
Q

Where is Saint-Chinian AOC loacted

A

large appellation between Minervois and Faugeres

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
90
Q

What types of wines are produced in Saint Chinian AOC?

A

main red and roses from blends

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
91
Q

What do Saint Chinian AOC wines need to be made of?

A

prinicpally Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre min 50% of the blend

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
92
Q

What are the two areas within the appellation of Saint Chinian AOC?

A

northern zone
southern area

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
93
Q

Describe the northern zone in Saint Chinian AOC

A

arid fast-draining schist soils resulting in low yields and wines of higher concentration. 2 subzones within this sector - Saint Chinian Roquebrun AOC and Saint Chinian Berlou AOC

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
94
Q

Describe the southern area in Saint Chinian AOC?

A

soils are clay and limestone with greater water-holding capacity which produces higher yields and less concentrated wines.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
95
Q

Where is Fitou AOC?

A

it is made up of two areas with a part of Corbieres AOC between them adjacent to Roussillon.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
96
Q

Describe Fitou AOC

A

it was the first AOC in Languedoc formed in 1948
the coastal area of Fitou is relatively flat low lying plains with clay and limestone soils that have good water retention

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
97
Q

Describe wines made in Fitou AOC

A

less concentration than those made inland

98
Q

What is the focus in Fitou AOC?

A

traditional varieties Carignan (must be 10-40% of the blend) and grenache Noir (minimum 20%)

99
Q

Who is the largest producer of Fitou AOC?

A

Mont Tauch co-operative - responsible for about 50% of total production of appellation

100
Q

Where is Faugeres AOC

A

situated at 250-400m of altitude on well-drained and low-fertility schistous soils, resulting in wines of very good concentration.

101
Q

What are max yields in Faugeres AOC?

A

they allow a higher production (50hl/ha for red) average yields are low 33 hl/ha

102
Q

how much grapes are organically grown in Faugeres AOC?

A

40% of vineyard land

103
Q

How long do the wines have to be aged in Faugeres AOC before release?

A

1 year

104
Q

Where are wines sold from Faugeres AOC?

A

almost entirely in France - 90%

105
Q

What is the climate in Pic Saint Loup?

A

continental - cool winters and warm summers with considerable rainfall(1000mm per year)

106
Q

What varietal performs well in Pic Saint Loup

A

Syrah and it must be 50% of blend

107
Q

What type of wines are made in Pic Saint Loup?

A

red and rose only

108
Q

What is a relatively new appellation in South of France?

A

terrasses du larzac AOC gaining status in 2014

109
Q

What are the range of altitudes that Larzac AOC can be found at?

A

120-200 m but also with some up to 400 m

110
Q

What does high diurnal range do in Larzac AOC?

A

gives ripe fruit flavors and fresh acidity

111
Q

What style wine is found in Terrasses AOC?

A

red wine only

112
Q

What must the wines in Terrasses AOC be a blend of?

A

at least three varieties - promoting the complexity of the final wine.

113
Q

What has the area of Terasses du Larzac AOC attracted recently?

A

investment and is seeking to establish premium price points with some super premium examples

114
Q

What is a new appellation that gained AOC status in 2015 in South of France?

A

La Clape

115
Q

Where is La CLape AOC?

A

its a coastal region close to the city of Narbonne

116
Q

What is the weather in La Clape AOC

A

warm, sunny, arid and windy

117
Q

How much red wine is made in La Clape AOC

A

80%

118
Q

What is La Clape known for?

A

its white wines which must include a min of 60% Grenache Blanc and/or Bourboulenc

119
Q

Where is Picpoul de Pinet AOC located

A

low-lying land close to the coast of France

120
Q

What varietal is only varietal allowed in Picpoul de Pinet AOC?

A

Piquepoul Blanc

121
Q

What happens with Piquepoul blanc in a warm climate?

A

It usually retains acidity while it ripens.

122
Q

What was Piquepoul Blanc grapes originally used for

A

base wine for the local Vermouth Industry

123
Q

What is Piquepoul BLanc used for since the 1970’s and 1980’s?

A

fruitier wines due to new technology and ability to avoid oxidation.

124
Q

What is the max yield in Picpoul AOC?

A

55 hl/ha

125
Q

Describe picpoul de Pinet AOC wines?

A

dry
med body
med+ to high acidity
med intensity lemon fruit with light floral notes
acceptable to good
inexpensive to mid priced

126
Q

How much of Picpoul de Pinet AOC is exported?

A

65% and most of domestic sales are to tourists

127
Q

What is the top export market for Picpoul de Pinet AOC?

A

uk (60%) followed by US and Netherlands

128
Q

What does the bottle for Pcipoul de Pinet look like

A

slender bottle with embossed Languedoc cross

129
Q

How much do co-ooperatives account for of the appellation of Picpoul de Pinet

A

90%

130
Q

Where are the Malepere AOC and Cabardes AOC located?

A

most westerly part of Languedoc

131
Q

What type of varieties are grown in Malepere and Cabardes AOC?

A

Bordeaux varieties as well as the typical Languedoc varieties

132
Q

What is the climate of Malepere AOC?

A

influences by Atlantic as it is protected from Mediterranean influences by mountains.

133
Q

What must the wines of Malepere AOC be made of?

A

a blend of at least two varieties and a min of 40% Merlot

134
Q

What is the climate of Cabardes AOC?

A

subject to both Atlantic and Mediterranean influences

135
Q

What must the wines of Cabardes AOC be made of

A

must be a blend of 40% of each Bordeaux variety (both Cabs and Merlot) and Grenache Noir and/or Syrah

136
Q

What region in Languedoc is mainly devoted to sparkling wines?

A

Limoux

137
Q

In terms of vol what categories are Languedoc dominated by

A

IGP and the “simple’ wine categories
15% AOC
70% IGP

138
Q

How much has rose production risen between 2010-2017 in Languedoc?

A

35%

139
Q

What are the two biggest markets for exports of Languedoc?

A

USA and China

140
Q

What has typically been the focus of Languedoc producers?

A

inexpensive wines often made by co-operatives

141
Q

What is the recent development of focus in Languedoc?

A

some ambitious producers are trying to make high quality wines, but most focus in on mid priced wines

142
Q

What promotional body is Languedoc a partner with?

A

Sud de France - covers wine, food and tourism)

143
Q

How many ha does Roussillon have currently?

A

21,000 (about 1/3 the size it was in 1980s)

144
Q

Where are vineyards planted in Roussillon

A

on slopes or foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains - there is no extensive flat coastal plain area suited for high vol grape growing

145
Q

How much of the vineyard area in Roussillon is classified as AOC?

A

70%

146
Q

How much of Roussillon’s production is VDN?

A

about a quarter

147
Q

How much of the production do co-operatives account for in Roussillon?

A

75%

148
Q

What color wines are produced in Roussillon?

A

majority are red followed by rose and a small proportion of whites

149
Q

What is the climate in Roussillon?

A

warm windy Mediterranean climate with moderate rainfall 500-600mm annually and high sunshine hours

150
Q

What is an issue due to climate that Roussillon can see

A

drought in dry years

151
Q

What helps to reduce the risk for fungal disease in Roussillon?

A

combination of frequent winds and low rainfall

152
Q

Besides fungal disease what else do the climates of Roussillon also reduce?

A

yields - increasing concentration and therefore income

153
Q

Are there certified organics grapes found in Roussillon?

A

yes - a high proportion of them are found in the region (15% by ha planted) - enabled by warm dry, windy, sunny conditions

154
Q

What are the most important varieties found in Roussillon?

A

Grenache Noir, Syrah, Carignan, and Mourvèdre for red and rose

Muscat (fortified) and Macabeu for whites

155
Q

What type of vine management was historically done in Roussillon? why?

A

bush vines and many still remain - its well adapted to the climate providing some shade to the bunches

156
Q

How is most work done in Roussillon vineyards?

A

by hand

157
Q

What are the two main AOCs for dry wines in Roussillon?

A

Cotes du Roussillon AOC
Cotes du Roussillon Villages AOC

158
Q

What is included in Cotes du Roussillon AOC?

A

it is large appellation (5,000 ha) that includes the entire department of Pyrenees-Orientales except the Collioure area

159
Q

Where is Cotes Du Roussillon AOC located?

A

situated on lower slopes (100-250m)

160
Q

What color wines are produced in Cotes du roussillon AOC?

A

red, white and Rose

161
Q

What is the max yield in Cote du Roussillon AOC?

A

48 hl/ha

162
Q

What are the principal varietals for red wines of Cote du Roussillon AOC?

A

Carignan, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, and Syrah
max allowed in vineyard of Carignan is 50%
min allowed in vineyard separately or together for Syrah and Mourvedre = 25%

163
Q

What must the blends of the wines in Cote du Roussillon AOC be made up of?

A

a min of 2 varieties with a requirement that the variety with the highest percentage is limited to 80% in the final blend.

164
Q

Describe style, quality and price for red wines in Cote du Roussillon AOC?

A

similar to Languedoc AOC

165
Q

What is the size of Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC compared to Cote du Roussillon AOC?

A

it is less than half the size

166
Q

what color wines are found in Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

red wines oly

167
Q

What must the blends of the wines in Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC be made up of?

A

a min of 2 varieties with a requirement that the variety with the highest percentage is limited to 80% in the final blend.

168
Q

Where are the vines grown in Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

slopes from 100-400m with altitude resulting ina cooling influence which equals greater acidity in the wines

169
Q

How does work need to be done in the Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC vineyards

A

by hand raising costs

170
Q

What is the max yields for Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

45 hl/ha- though yields are often well below due to hot dry climate resulting in wines of high concentration.

171
Q

How many villages can append their name to Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

5

172
Q

How can villages append their name to Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

if they have a lower max yield of 42hl/ha
some villages also require Carignan to be made with carbonic maceration to promote the primary fruit and reduce the tannins

173
Q

What is the style, quality and price of Cote du Roussillon Villages AOC

A

similar to Languedoc sub appellations

174
Q

Describe Collioure AOC location

A

small appellation extending along the coast to the Spanish border and has same boundaries as Banyuls AOC

175
Q

Why type of wines are made in Collioure AOC?

A

dry full-bodied red (great majority) and white

176
Q

Where are grapes grown in Collioure AOC?

A

steep terraces above the Mediterranean Sea

177
Q

What are the red wines from Collioure AOC made from?

A

grenache Noir, Syrah, and Mourvedre

178
Q

What are the white wines from Collioure AOC made from?

A

Grenache gris (mutation of grenache Noir)

179
Q

What are the max yields for both red and white in Collioure AOC?

A

40 hl/ha - rarely achieved - typical yield is closer to 20-25 hl/ha due to heat, low rainfall, and poor soils

180
Q

What is the style, quality and price of Collioure AOC

A

similar to Languedoc sub appellations with consistently high concentrations of fruit due to low yields

181
Q

Describe IGP Cotes Cataianes

A

covers the Pyrenees-Orientales department and is used by producers for red and white wines including some super premium white wines

182
Q

How are wines made in Roussillon AOC

A

as in Languedoc they can be made by either pressing the fruit and maceration on teh skins or by carbonic maceration depending on style of wine desired

183
Q

What is the current trend for wines in Roussillon AOC?

A

towards high-quality and outstanding or super-premium wines

184
Q

How much of the wine produced in Roussillon is sold in france?

A

80% excluding VDNs by volumne

185
Q

What are the top three export markets for Roussillon

A

China, Belgium and Germany

186
Q

What promotional body is Roussillon a partner of?

A

Sud de France

187
Q

How much production does rose account from Provence AOC wine?

A

90%
40% of France’s overall production

188
Q

What is Provence AOC famous for?

A

pal pink rose made principally from grenache Noir and CInault

189
Q

What other types of wine are made in Provence

A

red wine made from grenache Noir, Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvedre, and Carignan as well as very small vols of white wines made from Vermentino (Rolle) and Clairette.

190
Q

Why have vineyard lands been reduced in size in costal areas in Provence?

A

competition for land for housing developments and tourism

191
Q

What is the climate in Provence?

A

warm Mediterranean with adequate rainfall in most years

192
Q

What provides a cooling influences to help reduce fungal disease in Provence?

A

Mistral wind- but it can interrupt flowering and fruit ser reducing yields

193
Q

Describe Provence’s organic vineyards

A

it has double the national average due to favorable climate

194
Q

Where are the best sites found in Provence

A

those that have shelter from the Mistral. Altitudes up to 400 m in inland sites also provide moderating influence on warm summer temperatures

195
Q

What was Provence vineyards managed with and how is that changing>

A

bush vines - now being changed to trellised vines to aid mechanisation and reduce cost.

196
Q

What was an advantage of bush vine training?

A

offers more shade to the fruit

197
Q

Why did Provence switch to Trellises vines

A

they make it easier to control size of canopy and achieve ripeness in terms of sugar level and ripe skins and seeds at the same time. Also inter-row access is easier for workers and machines

198
Q

Why are grapes grown to make roses picked earlier than ones to make reds?

A

to retain acidity

199
Q

Why is choosing a harvest date critical for Provence?

A

to ensure fruit ripeness whilst retaining the desired level of acidity

200
Q

why are rose’s so pale in Provence

A

mostly related to the low level of color in the skins of the common varieties of the region (grenache Noir, Cinsault and the other local varietal Tibouren), but the AOC also regulates up to 20% of the blend can be white varieties.

201
Q

How is rose wine made in Provence

A

either by direct pressing (now the most common option) or by short maceration (a few hours) on the skins. Musts are typically acidified to achieve good balance between fruit and acidity

202
Q

How is fruit handled for best quality in Provence

A

protectively by chilling it to 4C which reduces the rate of oxidation and the excluding oxygen with a view to retain the fruity aromas and preserving the pale color.

203
Q

Name advantages of Hand harvesting and pressing whole bunches in Provence

A

less stress on grapes during harvesting esp if picked at coolest time (4am)

fruit can be sorted in vineyard

whole bunch pressing = gentler extracting fewer solids and phenolics

more juice produced at lower pressure due to presence of stems which creates channels for the juice

204
Q

Name disadvantages of hand harvesting and pressing whole bunches in Provence

A

requires a large well trained picking team to harvest and select correctly

in many countries, it is difficult to find and retain such labor

more expensive and slower

whole bunch pressing is more time consuming as fewer bunches can be loaded into the press

205
Q

Name advantages for machine harvesting and short maceration or hold in press

A

fast

significantly cheaper

does not require large picking teams

grapes can be picked at night for cooler temps

shortest possible delay between picking and refrigeration and/or pressing

206
Q

Name disadvantages to machine harvesting and short maceration or hold in press

A

requires an up-to-date well maintained machine and a skillful driver

grapes are destemmed by shaking mechanism of machine and therefore whole bunch pressing not possible

destemmed grapes require a higher amount of pressure to extract the same amount of juice as whole bunch pressing.

207
Q

What vessels does Provence fermentation take place in?

A

stainless steel tanks

208
Q

What are the wine makers choices in terms of yeast in Provence AOC?

A

they can use cultured yeasts for consistent fruity style or ambient yeasts

209
Q

What is positive about using cultured yeast in Provence AOC?

A

consistent fruity style
get off to fast start without any off flavors
has become majority option

210
Q

What is fermentation temperature used in Provence?

A

14-18C to preserve delicate primary fruit aromas but also avoid banana aroma associated with very low temperatures

211
Q

What are the regulations for Provence AOC in regards to fermentation

A

they need to be fermented to dryness - resulting in the consistent dry style for the appellation

212
Q

Is malolactic conversion used in Provence AOC?

A

no it is routinely blocked to preserve primary fruit flavor

213
Q

What will be done if the color is too deep in Provence AOC wines?

A

it will be reduced by fining the wine

214
Q

How long are Provence wines stored

A

for a short period of time (2-3 months) on lees in stainless steel containers before being bottled

few producers will keep wine on lees for 8-10 months to add texture and some producers make a oak aged premium rose

215
Q

What is the largest appellation in Provence?

A

Cote de Provence AOC with 20,000 ha under vines

216
Q

how much wine is produced as rose for Cote de Provence AOC

A

90%

217
Q

What are the principal varieties of Cote de provence AOC for rose

A

Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Mourvedre, Syrah, and Tibouren and wines muswt be a blend of these varieties.

218
Q

What are the max yields for Cote de Provence AOC

A

55 hl/ha with average yields being closer to 45 hl/ha

219
Q

What is the largest sub zone within Cote de Provence AOC?

A

Cote de Provence Sainte Victoire AOC

220
Q

What are the max yields for Cote de Provence Sainte Victoire AOC

A

50 hl/ha

221
Q

General SAT for Cote de Provence rose

A

pale pink-orange
light to med intensity aromas of raspberry, and red plum and herbal notes
med acidity
med body
med alcohol
good to very good
mid price to premium brands with some super premium

222
Q

What two AOCs in Provence require Counoise as a prinicpal variety:

A

Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC and Coteaux dAix-en-Provence AOC

223
Q

What is the max yield for Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC and Coteaux dAix-en-Provence AOC

A

60 hl/ha

224
Q

Where is Les baux de Provence AOC located

A

in the far north west of the region close to the Rhone River

225
Q

What varietials are used for Les Baux de provence AOC?

A

red wines from grenache Noir, Syrah and Mourvedre which must make up 60% minimum of the blend

226
Q

What type of wines does Bandol AOC produce?

A

unusually for Provence it produces more red than rose, however most recently, rose has become most common style by vol

227
Q

Where are vineyards located in Bandol AOC?

A

south facing slopes protected from winds

228
Q

how are slopes protected from erosion in Bandol AOC?

A

where they are steep they have to be terraced

229
Q

what are soils in Bandol AOC?

A

rocky - clay and limestone with low fertility

230
Q

How much has area under vine reduced in this century alone for Bandol AOC?

A

was 1400 to less than 600 due to competition for land and the difficulties working on the slopes

231
Q

What varietals are typically featured in Bandol AOC wines?

A

Mourvedre - ripens relatively reliably due to very warm microclimate

232
Q

What are regulations for wines in Bandol AOC?

A

red wines must be 50-95% Mourvedre and aged in oak for 18 months

rose wines must be 20-95% Mourvedre.

233
Q

What are the max yields for Bandol AOC?

A

40 hl/ha

234
Q

What is the quality and price points for red wines of Bandol AOC?

A

good to very good with some outstanding examples

mid priced to super premium

235
Q

What are the very small historic appellations that became AOCs from the 1930s onwards in Provence?

A

Bellet AOC, Cassis AOC (red)
Palette AOC (white)

236
Q

How many of the estates in Provence were granted 1955 cru classe status

A

23 etates and 18 of those still remain.

237
Q

How much of Provences wine is sold in france?

A

65% by vol

238
Q

What are the markets for Provence within France

A

about half at supermarkets and a high proportion at cellar door

239
Q

What is the top export market for Provence

A

USA which takes nearly a half of all Prvence wine exports

followed by UK at 13%

240
Q

How much has the export market grown in Provence since the turn of the century

A

500% in vol and 1000% in value

241
Q

How much are negociants accounting for of the production in Provence as a whole?

A

50%