Southern France Flashcards
What is the climate of Southern France ?
Warm Meditarrean Climate
with summer temperature in excess of 30°
mild winters and low rainfalls
What are the factors influencing the climate in the vineyards of Southern France ?
Foothills of the mountains are cooler
Coastal plains are wamer
Strong cool dry winds blow from the north - cooling eastern and western ends of the region
The Mistral blows down the Rhône and the Tramontane blows through the gap between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees
What are the climatic hazards of Southern France ?
Drought
occasional summer floods
Where are located the best vinyards for grape growing in Southern France ?
On the cooler, less fertile, well drained soils in the foothills of the mountains
Is Southern France uniform in terms of grapegrowing ?
No, it depends on the location
Which of black or white grape variety accounts for the majority of plantings in Southern France ?
Black
But over the last 30 years, the composition of vineayrds have dramatically change and now reflet a mix of loccal and international varieties
Which black grape varieties are planted in Southern France ?
Grenache
Syrah
Cabernet Sauvignon
Carignan
Cinsault
Mourvèdre
Merlot
What is the local IGP for the wines of Languedoc and Rousillon?
Pays d’Oc
On what type of sites is planted Syrah in Southern France ?
In the cooler sites
Describe the characteristics of Carignan of Southern France
High tannin, high acidity, deep colour
Lack fruit or finesse
Can produce quality wines on poor soils
Can produce enormous yields
Widely planted
What is the purpose of Cinsault of Southern France ?
used in rosé production
to add red fruit flavours to red blends
On what type of sites is planted Mourvèdre in Southern France ?
Only in the warmest sites
What is the purpose of mourvèdre of Southern France ?
adding richness, colours and complexity to blends
What are the black international varieties planted in Southern France ?
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Describe the winemaking techniques used in southern France for red wine
Modern equipment, improved cellar hygiene, temperature control, oxygen management and use of new and old oak
Semi-carbonic maceration is practised and can soften the tannins in Carignan
Which grape variety benefits from semi-Carbonic maceration in Southern France ?
Carignan, to soften its tannins