Roussillon Pt 1 - General & Viticultural History Flashcards
Why is Roussillon so difficult for viticulture?
Because of its steep, rugged topography, intense sun and heat and persistent winds.
What is Roussillon’s biggest challenge?
Identity. It is overshadowed by its administrative partner, Languedoc.
How large are the vineyards of Roussilon?
Thye have shrunk from 187,800 ac/76,000ha since 1882 to 50,656 ac/20,500ha in 2019.
What style did Roussillon historically produce the most?
VDNs however these are no longer in vogue so there is a switch to dry wine.
What challenges do the Roussillon vignerons face?
Wild boar destroying fences and eating the grapes;
Low yields in heat and droughts;
Costs of agrochemicals due to mildew;
Profitability is marginal.
How much of Roussillon wine is made by co-ops?
75% due to the small holdings.
What is hoped will reinvigorate the Roussillon wine industry?
Cheap land prices and the potential for high wine quality is attracting outside investors.
Which country governed Roussillon from the 12th to 17th century?
Spanish kingdoms of Aragon, Majorca and the Holy Roman Empire alternately.
When was Roussillon acquired by France?
In 1659 by the Treaty of the Pyrennees. It was handed over to Louis XIV.
Why was Roussillon slow to develop viticulture?
Mainly because of the rugged topography.
Which grapes were initially planted in Roussillon?
Spanish varieties:
Carinena -Carignan;
Monastrell/Mataro - Mourvedre;
Macabeo - Macabeu
Which styles of wine were originally made until the 1990’s in Roussillon?
Spanish styles - full-bodied, earthy, spicy reds and slightly oxidised whites.
When were the first AOCs established in Roussillon?
1936 - Rivesaltes, Banyuls and Maury.Fortified red and white VDN.
Which Roussillon AOC was awarded in 1956?
Muscat de Rivesaltes. Fortified red and white VDN.
Which Roussillon AOC was awarded in 1962?
Banyuls Grand Cru for fortified red and white VDN.
