Southern Rhone Flashcards
what is production dominated by in Southern Rhone?
red wines, but there are also good white and rose’s as wel..
how is S. Rhone’s area in compared to size of N. Rhone?
vineyard area is much greater in S. Rhone
where does the Rhone Valley open out?
south of Valance
where are the best vineyards in S Rhone planted?
in a flatter terrain than N. Rhone. stony soils that absorb the sun’s heat and warm the vineyard and aiding ripening
where do stones (galets) in the soil completely cover the soil surface?
Chateauneurf-du-Pape
what is the climate in S. Rhone?
Mediterranean with mild winters and and warm dry summers. drought can be a problem.
what is a mistral and what does it do to the vineyard?
it is a north wind in S. Rhone that can cause extensive damage to the vineyard
why are windbreaks planted in S. Rhone?
fewer slopes to protect vines from the wind
how is Grenache trained in S. RHone?
bush trained low to the ground to offer protection from the wind and to benefit from the warmth of the soil
how is Syrah trained in S. Rhone?
trellising systems due to it being more easily damaged by the wind
describe S. Rhone blends
unlike N. Rhone were only 1 or two varietals are typically used. in S. Rhone uses complex blends in some cases a dozen or more varietals are used.
what varietal dominates most of the red wines in S. Rhone
Grenache
what varietal is the most widely planted in S. Rhone?
Grenache
what do warm summers in S. Rhone help Grenache to do?
ripen fully leading to wines with concentrated spiced red fruit flavors. however in years that it becomes too hot flavors can become jammy and baked.
what two varietals play a supporting role to Grenache in S. Rhone?
Syrah and Mourvedre