Southern France Flashcards
What is the climate of Southern France?
Warm Mediterranean
What are the two winds that affect grape growing in Southern France and where do they blow?
- Mistral: down the Rhone Valley
- Tramontane: through the gap between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees
What are the most important local black grapes in Southern France?
Grenache and Syrah, with important supporting roles played by Carignan, Mouvedre, and Cinsault
What is a common technique used to soften the tannins in Carignan?
Semi-carbonic maceration
What are the most widely planted white grapes in Southern France?
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
What are the most widely planted local varieties of white grapes in Southern France?
Grenache Blanc and Muscat
What is Picpoul de Pinet?
A high acid wine produced in Southern France. The grapes receive cooling sea breezes, which helps them retain their natural acidity and bright green fruit and citrus flavors
What is the best sub-region of Minervois?
La Laviniere
Describe the area of the Corbieres appelation
Covers warm sites near the coast, as well as vineyards planted at altitude
What climactic and geographical factors contribute to the concentration achieved by wines from Cotes du Roussillon?
- More consistently rugged and mountainous than other areas of the Languedoc
- Bright sunlight
- Low rainfall
- Particularly strong winds
What feature defines the geography of Provence?
Landscape is broken up by many prominent ranges of hills, which offer protection from the Mistral, and provide a wide range of sites for grape growing.
Describe a typical Provence rosé
Very pale in color / light-bodied / dry / delicate grapefruit and red fruit flavors
What are the two grapes used for the best white wines in Provence?
Clairette and Rolle
What is Bandol and where is it located?
An important appellation in Provence that is located along the Mediterranean coast, east of Marseille. It produces reds from the Mouvedre grape that are dark and full bodied with powerful tannins.
