Roussillon Pt 3 -Grapes, Viticulture and Winemaking Flashcards
What are the main white grapes of Roussillon?
Grenache Blanc is main component of dry whites and many VDNs.
What are the main rose grapes of Roussillon?
Grenache Gris which is used in many dry whites and VDNs.
What are the main red grapes of Roussillon?
Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvedre.
How is Grenache noir used in Roussillon wines?
It is the mainstay of all red wines and red VDNs.
How is Carignan used in Roussillon wines?
It is the historic backbone to red blends and produces concentrated, high quality wines from old-vines.
Which international grapes are grown and used in Roussillon?
Cab. Sauv, Merlot and Chardonnay and used mainly in IGP wines.
How are vines trained in Roussillon?
They are trained low to the ground in gobelet form.
Why is gobelet the preferred training method in Roussillon?
It works well in areas of low rainfall with vines which have strong upward growing canes like Carignan and Grenache. It also protects from the Tramontane winds.
Which harvesting method is used in Roussillon? Why is this?
Hand harvesting. This is due to the gobelet method and the steep slopes.
What is the planting density in Roussillon? Why is this?
1600-2000 per acre/4-5000 per ha.
The wide spacing is necessary because of the alck of water and poor nutrients in the soil.
What are the positive aspects of Roussillon’s dry and windy climate?
There is reduced disease pressure so organic farming levels are higher. 20% of all vineyards are organic.
How are white wines made in Roussillon?
Direct press or short skin contact, and often vinified in barrel.
How are rose wines made in Roussillon?
By saignee or direct press.
How are red wines made in Roussillon?
Wines are made in the traditional way after destemming, except for Carignan. They can be matured tank, casks, barrel or demi-johns for an average of two years.
How is Carignan vinified in Roussillon?
It is made by carbonic maceration to soften its aggressive tannins.
