Vinlov Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of French wine law, or Loi Vinicole?
To regulate wine production and protect the integrity of France’s wine regions
It aims to ensure that wine labels are trustworthy and that consumers can rely on the quality and origin of the wines they purchase.
What does AOC stand for in French wine law?
Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée
This translates to ‘Controlled Designation of Origin’ and was established in 1935.
Name three key components of AOC regulations.
- Geography
- Grape Varieties
- Viticultural Practices
These components ensure that wines meet strict criteria regarding production methods and quality.
What is the role of the INAO in the AOC system?
To manage AOC regulations and protect them from misuse
INAO stands for Institut National de l’Origine et de la Qualité.
True or False: The AOP is a newer designation that is synonymous with AOC.
True
AOP, or Appellation d’Origine Protégée, was introduced in the 2000s as part of EU standardization.
What is the most basic designation in French wine classification?
Vin de France
This designation refers to table wines that do not qualify for any regional designation or AOC classification.
Fill in the blank: The _______ level allows for some regional designation but with more flexibility in grape varieties and production techniques compared to AOC.
Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP)
This level provides a middle ground for producers to showcase regional characteristics.
What does the term ‘Cru Classifications’ refer to?
Additional classifications within AOC that further distinguish quality levels
Examples include Grand Cru and Premier Cru in Burgundy.
How does the Bordeaux region classify its wines?
Based on a hierarchy of ‘crus’ or growths
The Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855 ranks wines from First Growth to Fifth Growth.
What are the two main types of grape varieties used in Champagne production?
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
- Pinot Meunier
These are the primary grapes allowed in the production of Champagne.
What is the traditional method used for making Champagne?
Méthode Champenoise
This method involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create carbonation.
What is the aging requirement for non-vintage Champagne?
A minimum of 15 months, with at least 12 months spent on the lees
This aging process contributes to Champagne’s complexity.
What is the significance of terroir in Bordeaux?
It emphasizes how climate, soil, and human influence uniquely affect each vineyard
Terroir plays a crucial role in the identity of Bordeaux wines.
List two prominent AOCs in the Loire Valley known for Sauvignon Blanc wines.
- Sancerre
- Pouilly-Fumé
These AOCs are known for their strict regulations and unique terroir.
What is the Beaujolais Nouveau?
An early-release wine bottled just six to eight weeks after harvest
It is released annually on the third Thursday in November and is often consumed young.
What is the unique classification system used in Champagne called?
Échelle des Crus
This system rates villages based on the quality of their grapes.
Fill in the blank: The highest-quality vineyards in Burgundy are classified as _______.
Grand Cru
Grand Cru vineyards are known for their exceptional terroir.
What are the two major classifications in the Right Bank of Bordeaux?
- Saint-Émilion
- Pomerol
These areas are known for wines primarily made from Merlot.
What does ‘Blanc de Blancs’ mean?
White of whites, made exclusively from Chardonnay
This style of Champagne is often lighter and can develop beautifully with age.
True or False: Crémant is a type of sparkling wine produced only in the Champagne region.
False
Crémant is produced in various regions of France using similar traditional methods.
What is the meaning of ‘Blanc de Noirs’ in Champagne production?
It means ‘white of blacks’ and is made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier
Blanc de Noirs Champagne tends to be richer and more robust, with berry and brioche flavors.