Southern France Flashcards
Describe the climate of Southern France.
Mediterranean with long sunshine, hot summers, mild winters and little rainfall.
What is the most widely planted grape variety in Southern France?
Grenache.
After Grenache, what are the two most widely planted varieties in Southern France?
Syrah and Carignan
What are the typical characteristics of Carignan?
High tannin, high acid, deep color. lacks fruit and finesse.
Describe Cinsault.
aromatic and fruity. Particularly well-suited to rose.
Where does mourvedre thrive? What characteristics does it add to blends?
very hot sites. Add richness, complexity and color to blends.
What is the largest viticultural challenge in Southern France?
Drought
Do ACs that permit a smaller percentage of Carignan in their blends tend to produce more or less prestigious wines?
more prestigious
What are the quartet of grapes found in Languedoc- Rousillon ACs?
Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvedre
Describe the best wines from Languedoc-Rousillon?
full bodied with concentrated spicy red fruit and oak flavors.
Where is Minervois AC?
In the languedoc-rousillon region in Southern France
Describe the red wine produced in Bandol.
Dark,full bodied reds from Mourvedre grape. They have powerful tannins and should age in the bottle. They have bramble, meat and liquorice-spice flavors.
