The Northern Rhône Flashcards
List Northern Rhone Appellations from North to South
Cote Rotie Condrieu Saint Joseph Hermitage Crozes Hermitage Cornas
Where are the best vineyards located?
On steep slopes, close to the River Rhone, facing south, often in lateral valleys. The valleys give protection from the cold northerly Mistral.
What’s the name of the wind that blows down the Rhone valley?
The Mistral
How are vines supported on the steep slopes?
Either by individual stakes or a teepee like structure.
What is the climate like in Northern Rhone?
Moderate continental, similar to Beaujolais
Which black grapes are permitted in Northern Rhone?
Only Syrah is permitted
What is the general style of Northern Rhone reds?
Some variation but generally deeply coloured, med to high tannin, black fruit, with black pepper or floral aromas.
New, old or no oak winemaker dependent
Why might a winemaker add a small % of white grapes to his red wine?
To stabilise colour extraction or, with Viognier, to add aromatic intensity
Which white grapes are used in Northern Rhone?
Viognier
Marsanne
Rousanne
What is the style of Viognier?
When is it picked and what risk must be averted by careful grape handling?
Full bodied, aromas of blossom and apricot with stone fruit flavours, low acid, high alcohol. Some new oak used
Some off dry late harvest wines.
Picked late season to develop signature aromas
Careful grape handling to avoid oily character
Which Northern Rhone appellation only makes white wine?
Condrieu
What is the character of Marsanne?
Adds richness and weight, often blended with Rousanne, with age develops hazelnut aromas
What is the character of Rousanne?
Adds acidity and perfume, often blended with Marsanne, with age develops hazelnut aromas
What is the style of Cote Rotie?
Deeply coloured, full bodied and spicy.
At best floral with texture
Small % Viognier often added
What is the style of Saint Joseph red and why can it differ?
From terraces - Full bodied
From valley floor - Lighter bodied
