Rhone Valley Flashcards
(335 cards)
1
Q
What are the two regions Rhone Valley is broken into
A
Northern Rhone
southern Rhone
2
Q
What is the predominate grape in Northern Rhone for red wine? white?
A
Syrah
Whites Viognier, Marsanne, anad Roussane
3
Q
What is climate in Northern Rhone
A
continental
4
Q
what is the climate in Southern Rhone
A
mediterranean
5
Q
what are the significant varieties found in Southern Rhone?
A
Reds (and a few roses): Grenanche Noir, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvedre
Whites = blends based in Grenache Blanc
6
Q
what separates the Northern and Southern Rhone
A
a gap of 50 km (30 miles) where relatively few grapes are grown
7
Q
Where are Northern Rhone appellations located
A
close to the river (vines planted on slopes above the river itself)
8
Q
How much area is under vine in Southern Rhone?
A
66,000 ha
9
Q
how much area is under vine in Northern Rhone
A
less than 4,000 ha
10
Q
Where are Southern Rhone vines located?
A
a distance from the river
11
Q
North or South? Which part of Rhone has both individual AOCs as well as large volumes of basics Cote de Rhone AOC and IGP wines?
A
South
12
Q
which two appellations together produce around 60% of the total wine produced in the Rhone?
A
Cote du Rhone AOC
Cote du Rhone Villages AOC
13
Q
in 2018 how was red/white/rose broken out by percentage?
A
red = 74%
white = 10%
rose = 16%
14
Q
in 2018 how much percentage of Rhone was certified organic?
A
8%
15
Q
what wind blows through the Northern and Southern Rhone?
A
Mistral
16
Q
What type of varietal is vigorous in both northern and southern Rhone?
A
Syrah
17
Q
How are Syrah vines trained in Northern Rhone?
A
on steep slopes of the top of appellations, individual plants are often tied to one or two poles. Trellising is not possible
18
Q
What is Syrah susceptible to in Rhone?
A
mites and botrytis bunch rot
19
Q
What disease is specific to Syrah? describe it
A
Syrah decline or disorder. leaves turn red and the graft point breaks up and the vine dies
20
Q
SAT for Syrah in Northern Rhone crus
A
deep ruby in color
med to pronounced in intensity aromas and flavors of violet, plum (red in cooler years and sites; black in warmer years and sites), blackberry, with black pepper and herbal notes
acidity = med to high
tannins = med to high
21
Q
what does Syrah add to Southern Rhone blends?
A
color, fruit, and structure
22
Q
When does Grenache Noir ripen?
A
late - can be affected by autumn rains
23
Q
What kind of yield does Grenache Noir produce
A
high yield
24
Q
what kind of climate does Grenache Noir need to ripen
A
warm
25
how is Grenache Noir trained?
it grows upright so trained as a bush vine, pruned short to contain the vigor
26
What kind of soil does Grenache Noir do well with?
dry low fertile soils - due to vigor
27
What is Grenache Noir resistant to?
drought
28
What is Grenache Noir susceptible to?
coulure, fungal disease, downy mildew, Phomopsis, and botrytis bunch rot; bacterial necrosis or bacterial blight,
29
how is bacterial necrosis (blight) combatted
planting only disease-free stock and avoiding contamination from pruning tools
30
What is sugar accumulation like in Grenache Noir?
can accumulate sugar quickly which is a problem for dry wines but makes great VDN
31
SAT for Grenache Noir?
pale ruby color
ripe red fruit (strawberry, red plum, red cherry), spicy herbal notes,
high alcohol
low to med tannins
low acidity
32
Describe the budding and ripening of Mourvèdre grapes
late budding
late ripening
33
what kind of climate does Mourvedre grape need?
only thrives in warm to hot climates - needing the high temp at the end of the season to fully ripen. can be underripe if late summer is not hot
34
Is Mouvedre resistant to drought?
no, but it needs small but regular amounts of water
35
How is Mouvedre best pruned and trained?
short; either cordon trained or bush vine
36
what soil does mouvedre best grow in?
calcereous soils to retain water deep
37
What kind of yields does Mouvedre produce?
low
38
what is Mouvedre prone to in vineyard?
mites, leafhoppers, and sour rot (disease that affects ripening bunches due to insect or bird damage to the grapes which then make grapes prone to fungi or bacteria)
39
what is mouvedre prone to in teh winery?
strongly prone to reduction - needs adequate access to O2
40
what vessel is Mouvedre typically aged?
in old oak
41
SAT for Mouvedre in Rhone
almost always used in a blend
contributes:
deep ruby color
intense aromas of blackberry, blueberries, violets
high alcohol
high firm tannins
42
Describe the budding and yields of CInsault
late budding; high yielding
43
What is Cinsault resistant to?
drought and heat
44
What happens if Cinsault is grown on soils with excessive Lime
can suffer cholorsis
45
What is CInsault prone to?
mites, grape moths, esca and eutypa
46
How is CInsault typically used in Southern Rhone
small part of a red blend
47
Describe generally how CInsault is made
to preserve fruit flavors -
mid-range fermentation temp
aged briefly on stainless steel
48
SAT for Cinsault in Rhone
contributes
light ruby color
med to med+ intense aromas of fresh red fruit (raspberry, red cherry)
high alcohol
low to med tannins
49
when are the aromas most prominant for CInsault?
in the first year after wine is made - meant for early drinking reds and roses
50
what are the main red varieties used in Rhone?
Syrah
Grenache Noir
Mouvedre
Cinsault
Carignan
51
What are the main white varietals used in Rhone?
Viognier
Marsanne
Roussanne
Grenache Blanc
Clariette
Bourboulenc
52
What type of budder is Viognier? what does this make it prone to?
early budder - prone to spring frosts
53
How is viognier trained and why?
on a trellis or poles to prevent wind damage
54
Describe yields for Viognier
unpredictable and low due to poor flowering and fruit set (coulure)
55
Why does Viognier need to be fully ripe?
for pronounced aromas
56
What is the risk of leaving Viognier grapes on the vine too long?
they lose flavor and acidity, rapidly gaining sugar which results in unbalanced wines with lack of flavor
57
SAT for Viognier
med lemon in color
pronounced aromas and flavors of honeysuckle, apricot and peach
medium to high alcohol
low acidity
58
How much Viognier is allowed in some northern Rhone red wines?
up to 20% - otherwise made of Syrah
59
Describe budding and vigor of Marsanne
late budder and vigorous and productive
60
Describes why yields must be kept low for Marsanne
to produce high-quality wines to; reduce amount of fruit being ripened
61
What kind of soil does Marsanne perform best on?
stony and low fertility to keep yields low
62
What is Marsanne prone to?
mites , powdery mildew and botrytis bunch rot
63
SAT for MArsanne
medium lemon in color sometimes gold
low intensity of honeysuckle, lemon, apricot,
oily texture
med acidity
full bodied
med to high alcohol
64
Describe what style wine Marsanne is used for in Northern Rhone? Southern? (blended vs varietal)
Northern = varietal wine or blended with Roussanne
Southern = usually part of a blend
65
Describe the type of soils Roussanne does best on
low fertility, well-draining
66
Is Roussanne early or late budding?
late budding
67
what does Roussanne have poor resistant to?
wind
68
What is Roussanne susceptible to?
coulure; powdery mildew, botrytis bunch rot, and mites
69
In comparison to Marsanne how does it grow?
less successfully and is less commonly grown in Rhone
70
SAT for Roussanne
medium lemon in color sometimes gold
med to med + intensity aromatics of pear, with herbal notes
medium to med + acidity
med to high alcohol
71
How does Roussanne compare to Marsanne in terms of aging
Roussanne ages quicker than Marsanne
72
What other varietals are Roussanne typically blended with in Rhone Valley - northern? southern?
Northern = Marsanne,
Southern = Clairette, grenache Blanc
single varieties are made in both as well
73
Describe type of budding for Grenache Blanc and the problem this can cause?
relatively early budding, but because it is typically grown in mild south of France and in Spain there is only an occasional problem with spring frosts.
74
What does Grenache Blanc have good resistance against?
wind
75
In Rhone where is Grenache Blanc typically grown
almost exclusively in the southern part
76
What types of wines are made in Southern Rhone with grenache Blanc?
VDN and dry white blends
77
SAT for Grenache Blanc
low intensity ripe green fruit and some floral notes
high alcohol
low acidity
78
What type of variety is Clairette?
vigorous white
79
What type of soil does Clairette do well in?
low fertility, dry soils - well suited for southern Rhone and low rainfall
80
What methods used to contain the vigor of Clairette
pruned short and excessive buds removed
grows upright
81
What is Clairette resistant to?
wind
82
When does Clairette ripen? what does this make it prone to?
late
early autumn rains
83
Name a reason Clairette needs to be handled carefully in the winery
it oxidizes easily
84
SAT for Clairette
primary used for white blends
adding freshness and fruit
white flower, fennel, apple, grapefruit
high alcohol
low to medium acidity
85
Where is CLairette typically used in the RHone?
southern white Rhone blends
86
Describe the Bourboulenc grape
late ripening with loose branches and thick skins, resistance to botrytis bunch rot, giving it disease resistance necessary for late ripening
87
Where does Bourboulenc grow well?
warm dry locations (ex. Southern Rhone)
88
SAT for Bourboulenc in Southern Rhone?
white blends
contributes lemon flavor
medium+ acidity
med alcohol
89
In general describe winemaking in Rhone Valley
traditional with a preference for concrete vats for fermentation (although stainless steel and large wooden vessels are also used)
90
What vessels are typically used for maturation in Rhone Valley
small and large wooden vessels
91
How is Grenache Noir typically fermented and aged? why?
in concrete vats and stainless steel due to it being prone to oxidation and premature loss of color when exposed to too much O2
92
How is Syrah typically fermented and aged? why?
has to be pumped over more often and often aged in oak to provide gentle oxidation
due to it being prone to reduction
93
What do some quality producers in the northern Rhone use to age wine?
some use a proportion of new French oak barrique, but less prevalent than in the 1990's
94
How are red Cru level wines typically harvested and brought to the winery in Rhone
grapes harvested by hand
transported in small crates(ensuring whole unbroken bunches arrive at winery)
95
How are red Cru level wines typically destemmed and pressed at the winery in Rhone
they are destemmed and chilled or cold soaked for 1-3 days to extract color
alternatively, they may be whole bunch pressed to promote more intense aromatics
96
What vessels are used to ferment red Cru level wines in Rhone
typically in stainless steel, large concrete vats, or open top wooden fermenters
97
What types of yeasts are used to ferment red Cru level wines in Rhone
either ambient or cultured yeasts
98
What temps are used for fermentation of red Cru level wines in Rhone and why?
warm temps to enhance extraction of color, flavor, and tannin
99
How long does maceration on skins last and what methods are used for maceration of red Cru level wines in Rhone and why?
maceration on the skins may last 20-30 days with punch downs, pump overs, and rack and return in order to enhance extraction of color, flavor, and tannin
100
About how long does maturation last before putting into bottles in the Rhone
12-24 months
101
What vessels are used for maturation with Grenache Noir? Syrah? Mourvedre?
grenache Noir = large oak vessels
Syrah and Mourvedre = small barrels with typically a proportion of 20-30% new
102
How are inexpensive high level red wines typically harvested and brought to the winery in Rhone
harvested by machine
due to grapes inevitably being crushed it is important to process entire volume quickly
hand picking and carbonic maceration is an option for some (to enhance color and fruit intensity and produce wines with low tannins)
103
What do some large producers do Rhone to produce a low tannin fruity style quickly
flash detente or thermovinification
104
What type of yeasts are used for inexpensive reds in Rhone valley
cultured to ensure quick reliable fermentation to dryness
105
What temp is fermentation done for inexpensive red wines in Rhone? why?
mid range to retain fruit flavors and avoid the extraction of high levels of tannins
106
Why are macerations levels kept short for inexpensive red wines in Rhone?
to retain fruit flavors and avoid extraction of high tannin levels
107
How are inexpensive red wines stored and for how long before bottling
stainless steel for a few months
108
Describe what saignee refers to in Southern Rhone
process of making rose wine with the idea of only making rose wine from the grapes and all the juice extracted from them, not drawing off the must to make rose as a by-product of concentrating what will become a red wine
109
How are rose wines typically made in Southern Rhone
through short maceration where grapes are pressed after cold maceration on the skins for about 12-48 hours, which provides needed color, flavor intensity and light tannins
110
How are rose wines fermented in Southern Rhone?
same as for white wines
111
HOw are rose wines typically aged in Southern RHone?
oak or concrete large vats or stainless steel, although some producers will age top wines in old small oak barrels to add texture
112
What temperature are white wines fermented in Rhone Valley? why
mid-range to retain fruit
113
Do producers use malolactic conversion for white wines in RHone Valley? why
its sometimes avoided to retain natural acidity
114
What type of vessels are used to age white wines in RHone?
most are aged in large old oak or stainless steel
115
Why is lees stirring typically sometimes avoided in white Rhone wines?
natural fuller body however, some still do some lees stirring to create an even fuller body
116
How are white wines in Rhone matured? fermented? why?
some are matured in oak for adding a layer of complexity
some are fermented in oak for better fruit-oak integration
117
What is the climate of the Northern Rhone
moderate continental climate
warm summers and adequate rainfall falling mainly in autumn and winter
118
What is the wind that blows from the north in Northern Rhone and what does it do?
Mistral - reduces the incidence of fungal disease and decreases the vigor of the vines leading to lower yields and higher concentration in wines, but lower production
119
what is the difference between the most northerly and southerly vineyards in Northern Rhone and what is the result of this
65 km (40 miles)
better ripening in the southern part of the region due to less wind
120
Where are the better vineyards located in Northern Rhone? What is the disadvantage of this
on steep slopes that increase the interception of sunlight and promote better drainage
hand harvesting needed - raises costs
121
What is the northern most appellation in Northern Rhone Valley?
Cotie Rotie AOC
122
What type of wines does Cote Rotie AOC produce?
only red
123
Describe the location of the vineyards in Cote Rotie AOC
on steep slopes, often terraces, mostly facing east and south east making for high sunlight interception and sheltered from the winds of the north
124
What results in fully ripened grapes in Cote Rotie AOC?
high levels of sunlight and heat, rapid drainage, and poor stony soils
125
How are Cote Rotie AOC grapes harvested? Why?
by hand due to steep slopes and erosion; grapes planted on terraces that need to be repaired
126
How are vines trained in COte Rotie AOC?
individual vines are single or double guyot trained and are tied to one or two poles (echalas)
127
What are the quality and price of Cote Rotie AOC wines?
good to outstanding
Premium to super premium
128
How many ha are under vine in Cote Rotie AOC?
now = 250 ha
19070s = 70 ha
129
What are all wines made from in Cote Rotie AOC?
Syrah with up to 20% viognier permitted in blends- although in practice it is often 0 and normally no more than 8%
130
What rootstock is preferred for Syrah in Cote Rotie AOC? WHy?
3309 regarded as being relatively productive and vines produce grapes with good depth of color
131
What are typical planting densities for Syrah in Cote Rotie AOC? why
10,000 vines/ha
creates competition between vines, reducing yields and producing concentrated fruit
132
What are max yields permitted in Cote Rotie AOC?
40 hl/ha
133
When Syrah and Viognier are both used in Cote Rotie AOC how do they have to be fermented
co-fermented
134
What is the emphasis of winemakers for wines made in Cote Rotie AOC?
the aromatic potential of wines
135
How do winemakers emphasize the aromatic potential of wines in Cote Rotie AOC?
most choose to destem and then cold soak the fruit but usage of a percentage of stems in the ferments is increasingly common
136
What temperatures are used to ferment wines from Cote Rotie AOC? why?
warm temps for full extraction
137
Where viognier is used in a blend in Cote Rotie AOC what does it add to the blend
floral and fruity aromas
138
What types of yeasts are used in Cote Rotie AOC? Why?
natural yeasts to help with a greater perception of terroir
139
In what vessels does malolactic fermentation take place in Cote Rotie AOC?
cask
140
In what vessels does maturation take place in Cote Rotie AOC?
either in small barrels (225L barriques) or in large wooden vessels with demi muids of 500-600L being flavored by many for less overt oak notes in young wines
141
What are Cote Rotie AOC wines known for stylistically
pronounced aromas, being typically softer and less full-bodied than wines of top appellations
142
Where is the Condrieu AOC appellation situated in Rhone?
close to northern end of northern Rhone vineyard area
143
What must the wines (varietal) be made from in Condrieu AOC
100% Viognier
144
What is the max yield permitted in Condrieu AOC? what does this ensure
41 hl/ha
med to pronounced flavor intenstiy
145
Which way are vineyards facing in Condrieu AOC and why is this?
south facing - due to the river turning southwest at this point in Rhone
this allows for the enhancing of fruit ripening
146
Where are vines grown in Condrieu AOC?
steep, low fertility, rocky slopes often in terraced vineyards with constant challenges from soil erosion and wind
147
What single estate that surrounds the Condrieu AOC appellation?
Chateau-Grillet AOC
148
What did Chateau Grillet AOC create the reputation for?
Viognier as one of France's great wines
149
What vessel is used to ferment most Condrieu AOC wines
stainless steel or large wooden vessels; few producers will use small barrels that produces wines with more texture and flavor
150
Is malolactic conversion used in COndrieu AOC?
producers can choose whether to use it or not, but normally it is carried out
151
How long are wines aged in lees in COndrieu AOC?
10-12 weeks - utilizing lees stirring
152
What is the price and quality of Condrieu AOC
very good to outstanding quality
premium to super premium in price
153
What is the long appellation that runs from Condrieu to Cornas, nearly the entire length of the northern Rhone region (50km/30miles)
Saint-Joseph AOC
154
Where is the historical heart of the region located in Saint Joseph AOC?
"lieu-dit" (name site) Saint Joseph - at southern end opposite Tain L'Hermitage
155
What year was the Saint Joseph AOC appellation extended ?
1994 - which included some sites not on hillsides that normally produce lower-quality wines
156
Describe the type of wines made in Saint Joseph AOC
about 90% are made red and although a small percentage of Roussanne and Marsanne are allowed to be blended in red, it is not a normal practice
157
what is the max yield for Saint Joseph AOC
40 hl/ha
158
What are the most common fermentation vessels used in Saint Joseph AOC
stainless steel and large wooden tanks
159
What type of vessels are most commonly used for aging in Saint Joseph AOC
larger wooden tanks or large barrels
sometimes barriques are used
160
What is the quality and price of Saint Joseph AOC
good to outstanding
mid priced to super premium priced
161
What is the most famous of all northern Rhone appellations
Hermitage AOC
162
How many ha is Hermitage AOC?
137ha virtually all planted
163
How much of the ha in Hermitage AOC is devoted to white wine?
about 1/3
164
Which bank of the river is Hermitage AOC on?
left bank as it flows south
165
Where is Hermitage AOC situated along the river and why?
south facing slopes to catch the sun and gain protection from the cold wind
166
Describe soils in Hermitage AOC
thin stony soils
167
what is the climate in Hermitage AOC
hot and dry
168
SAT for Hermitage AOC
Pronounced flavor intensity
high tannins (in reds)
longevity
169
Where can Syrah be found in Hermitage AOC
the western end of the hill that has the highest temps
170
What is a problem with vineyards in Hermitage AOC
erosion due to terraced
171
How is vineyard work done in Hermitage AOC?
Hand
172
What is the max yield in Hermitage AOC
whites = 45 hl/ha
reds = 40 hl/ha
rarely achieved and some producers have old vines giving low yields and highly concentrated wines
173
Describe winemaking in Hermitage AOC for red wines
traditional
proportion of stems included in ripe vintages
warm fermentation = max extraction of flavors and tannins
lengthy oak aging (12-18 months)
medium to large wooden vessels
proportion of new oak is common but not always used
174
Describe winemaking in Hermitage AOC for white wines
typically a blend of Roussanne and Marsanne or pure Marsanne.
fermentation is typically in old wooden vats, new or old oak barrels, or in stainless steel
maturation takes place in oak with the minority being new or stainless steel depending on preferred style
wines typically aged on lees for 10-12 months
175
what happens to Hermitage AOC whites after long bottle aging
best wines develop rich, creamy, and nutty flavors with outstanding complexity
176
What happens to wine in very ripe years in hermitage AOC?
a rare Vin de Paille is made - sweet wine made by drying grapes off the vine
177
Which two negociant houses dominate the holdings in hermitage AOC
Chapoutier and Jaboulet
178
What is the quality and price found in Hermitage AOC Wines
both red and white = very good to outstanding
mostly super premium in price
reds are a model of worlds most structured and long lived Syrah wines
179
What is the largest of the northern appellations in Northern Rhone?
Crozes-Hermitage AOC
180
How many ha do Crozes-Hermitage AOC cover and on which bank?
1700 ha on the left bank of Rhone
181
Describe the location of Crozes-Hermitage AOC in RHone
surrounds the town of Tain L'Hermitage and the hill of Hermitage itself and extends almost equally to the north, east, and south of these.
182
What is the climate of the north sector of Crozes-Hermitage AOC
continental climate with marked Alpine influences;
can be extremely cold in the winter with a strong influence from the Mistral
183
What helps obtain a moderate sugar accumulation and retains acidity in northern sector of Crozes-Hermitage AOC?
long growing season and high diurnal range
184
What is the climate of the southern sector of Crozes-Hermitage AOC?
more temperate than northern sector, although there can be heavy rainfall in late autumn and through winter
185
When was the Crozes-Hermitage AOC first created?
1937 and extended in 1956 to the now 1700 ha
186
What is the difference between the land to the north of Tain in Crozes-Hermitage AOC and the land in the south of Crozes-Hermitage AOC?
North = steep slopes
South = flat lands (machine harvest possible)
187
How is Hermitage AOC and Crozes-Hermitage AOC differ in terms of soil?
Crozes-Hermitage AOC has deeper more fertile soil resulting in less concentrated wines.
188
What are the max yields in Crozes-Hermitage AOC?
45 hl/ha
189
What is the price and quality of wines found in Crozes-Hermitage AOC?
much are produced as mid priced; good to very good wines
there are also a number of high-quality, premium-priced
190
Who produces high quality premium priced wines in Crozes-Hermitage AOC
Jaboulet's Domaine de Thalabert
191
Is carbonic and semi carbonic maceration used in Crozes-Hermitage AOC? Why?
yes, but it is rare. can be used to enhance fruitiness of wines that are meant to drink young
192
What is typical fermentation method used in Crozes-Hermitage AOC
traditional fermentation on the skins for wines meant to be aged
destemming is widely practiced
fermentation in concrete tanks or stainless steel
193
How are wines maturated in Crozes-Hermitage AOC
the concrete tanks or stainless steel used to ferment or possibly large oak vessels
194
How much of the production do whites make up of in Crozes-Hermitage AOC? what grapes are they made from
9%
Marsanne (more planted) and Roussanne
195
How are top white wines from Crozes-Hermitage AOC aged?
old wood, and occasionally proportion of new barrels
196
What is the quality and price of Crozes-Hermitage AOC wines
mainly good to very good and mid-priced to premium with some outstanding wines
197
What is the most southerly of the northern Rhone appellations for red wine productions?
Cornas AOC
198
How are the vineyards in Cornas AOC in RHone planted?
natural south and east facing amphitheater with some steep slopes
199
Describe the climate in Cornas AOC in Rhone
warm Mediterranean climate
200
What are the characteristic of Cornas AOC that contribute to it being the first Syrah to be picked in Norther Rhone
climate, excellent aspect, and good protection from cold winds
201
What style wines are made in Cornas AOC?
only red - must be 100% Syrah
202
What is the max yield of Cornas AOC?
40 hl/ha
203
How many ha in the appellation of Cornas AOC?
145 ha most are now planted
204
What are Cornas AOC wines known for?
tannin intensity
205
How do producers handle tannins in Cornas AOC?
some producers use small barrels to soften tannins but most trend toward robust and long-lived wines
206
What is the quality and price of Cornas AOC wines?
very good to outstanding and premium to super premium in price
207
What is the most southernly of the northern Rhone Appellations
Saint Peray AOC
208
what is the climate of Saint Peray AOC
slightly cooler climate than its immediate neighbors
209
what style wine does Saint Peray AOC produce
devoted to white wines
Marsanne vast majority of planting with some Rousanne
traditional method sparkling wines rarely made
210
What type of soil does Saint Peray AOC have?
limestone and granitic soils
ensuring good water retention capacity and drainage
211
What is the max permitted yield of Saint Peray AOC
45 hl/ha
212
How are wines fermented in Saint Peray AOC?
stainless steel or in oak barrels
213
How are wines aged in Saint Peray AOC
stainless steel or in oak barrels or old oak vessels
higher quality wines aged for 10-12 months
214
Do producers stir the lees in Saint Peray AOC? why?
some producers to in order to add body to the wine
215
What is the quality and price of Saint Peray AOC wines?
good to very good
mid to premium priced
216
What category is used for red, white, and rose wines made from grapes grown outside of the AOCs in the northern Rhone
Collines Rhodanniennes IGP - hills of Rhone
217
What are max yields for Collines Rhodanniennes IGP
80 hl/ha
218
What grape varieties are allowed in Collines Rhodanniennes IGP
other varieties that are not allowed by AOC rules
219
what is the price of Collines Rhodanniennes IGP wines
less expensive than AOC wines - typically mid to premium-priced
220
What is the climate in southern Rhone?
warm Mediterranean with mild winters and very warm dry summers
221
Describe the rainfall in Southern Rhone
overall rainfall is adequate for grape growing; drought is increasing problem in some summers
222
Is irrigation permitted in Southern Rhone
permitted in severe drought and under strict rules
223
Describe the land in Southern Rhone
the land is flatter with little protection from the Mistral wind
224
How are vines trained in Southern RHone
low bush trained are common for suitable varietals (esp grenache Noir)
Syrah is typically tied to wires on trellises to protect it from the wine
225
What is the most planted variety in southern Rhone
Grenache Noir
226
name the appellations of Southern Rhone according to hierarchy
Cotes du Rhone AOC
Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC
Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC + named village, currently numbering 22 villages (eg Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC Seguret)
Individual appellations for the top villages of southern Rhone known as Cru: (Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Gigondas AOC, Cairanne AOC, etc)
227
What are the red wine regulations around varietals for southern Rhone AOC's (ex Chateauneuf-du-Pape)?
grenache noir dominant blends with Mourvedre and Syrah along with other permitted varieties (ex carignan and Cinsault)
228
What are the regulations for red, white and rose wines in southern Rhone?
distinguish between principal, complementary, and other permitted varieties
state total min proportion of principal varieties that must be used
229
What vast appellation covers all vineyard land suitable for grape growing in southern Rhone (except other Rhone appellations)
Cotes du Rhone AOC
230
What is the second largest appellation by ha planted in France? What does it come after?
Cotes du Rhone AOC
Bordeaux AOC
231
What are the max yields for red, rose and white in Cote du Rhone AOC
51 hl/ha for all
232
What are the white varieties are allowed in Cote du Rhone AOC
Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc
many other local varieties including Piquepoul Blanc
233
What are the regulations around Cote du Rhone Villages AOC for red wines?
similar to Cote du Rhone AOC but requires final blend to be min of 66% of at least two of the three principal varietals and must include Grenache Noir
234
What are max yields for Cote du RHone Village AOC
44 hl/ha
235
What are max yields for Cote du Rhone Villages AOC = named village
41 ha/hl
236
What are max yields for southern Rhone crus?
35 hl/ha - Chateauneuf-du-pape
36-38 hl/ha in red wines of other villages
237
SAT for red Cotes du Rhone AOC
medium intensity ruby
medium intensity red plum, blackberry fruit
no oak flavors
med acidity
med tannins (or low if made by carbonic maceration)
med alcohol
good quality
inexpensive in price
238
When was Gigondas AOC granted AOC?
1971
239
How high above sea level is Gigondas AOC?
600 m
240
What mountains shade Gigondas AOC and how does this impact the vineyards?
Dentelles de Montmirall Mountains
reduces temps in mornings extending time for maturation and increases the flavor in resulting wines
241
What are two things that have become increasingly valued in Gigondas AOC in helping Grenache Noir keeping alcohol levels down
cooler temperatures and cooling effects of Mistral
242
What is the final blend in Gigondas AOC based on in terms of varietals?
Grenache Noir (at least 50%) and at least one of Syrah or Mourvedre
243
When was Vacqueyras AOC granted AOC status?
1990
244
What is the elevation of Vacqueyras AOC? what does this provide?
440 m
diurnal variation but not threatening ripeness in cooler years
245
What types of wines are made in Vacqueyras?
small amounts of white and rose
246
what is the final blend based on in Vacqueyras AOC
principal variety is Grenache Noir (at least 50%) and at least Syrah or Mourvedre
247
What is the price and quality of Vacqueyras AOC wine?
good to very good
mid to premium priced
248
What is the price and quality of Gigondas AOC wine?
good to very good
mid to premium priced
249
What is the most northernly of the southern Rhone crus?
Vinsobres AOC
250
When was Vinsobres given separate AOC status?
2006 - prior was named village within Cote du Rhone Villages AOC
251
what kind of planting is Vinobres AOC dominated by
Grenache Noir - however recently more Syrah has been planted and grown
252
What does Syrah contribute to Vinobres AOC blends?
flavor intensity, structure and color
253
What style wines are made in Vinsobres AOC
exclusively red
254
what is the final blend based on in Vinsobres AOC
principal variety is Grenache Noir (at least 50%) and at least Syrah or Mourvedre
255
Where are vineyards found in Vinsobres AOC? why?
south, southeast facing slopes of 200-500m
giving good sunlight interception, good drainage, and some protection from the Mistral
256
What happens on higher slopes in Vinsobres AOC?
they are cooler, which lengthens the period of ripening and increases the flavor intensity
257
Why are Cinsault and Carignan plots valued in Vinsobres AOC?
the older plots are increasingly valued for their high quality fruit
258
What is the standard quality and price of Vinsobres AOC wines?
good to very good and mid to premium-priced
259
Describe Rasteau AOC
promoted to AOC in 2020 for its red wine - although it does produce a small amount of VDN.
260
What varietals are used in Rasteau?
prinicpal = Grenache Noir with at least 50% and then at least one of Syrah or Mourvedre
261
Where are vines planted in rasteau?
on low south facing slopes (100m) in a warm enclave sheltered from the Mistral which results in ripe full bodied wines
262
Is irrigation allowed in Rasteau?
yes within limits set
263
How is wine fermented in Rasteau?
large vats esp concrete and matured in large oak vessels
some higher quality Syrah is aged in small barrels at additional cost
264
What is quality and price for Rasteau wines?
good to very good
mid to premium priced
265
Describe Cairanne AOC
a new AOC created in 2015, not as steep as Gigondas or as warm as Rasteau
produces red wines mainly in a fruity and approachable style
266
What is the final blend made from in Cairanne AOC?
Grenache Noir (40%)
and at least one Syrah or Mourvedre
267
Describe the white wine produced in Cairanne AOC
the small amount produced is known for its quality
268
Describe Beaumes de Venise AOC
best known for VDN, it also includes unfortified red wines from 2005
most vineyards are on slopes some slightly shaded by Dentelles de montmirail
269
What is the final blend made of in Beaumes de Venise AOC
based on principal grape - Grenache Noir with which Syrah must together make up 50% of the blend
270
What does Chateauneuf-du Pape AOC owe its fame to?
the village and the appellation owe fame to the fact that the Pope had his summer residence there in the 14th C
271
What were the regulations that Baron du Roy of Chateau Fortia drew up in 1923 for the first prototype of an AOC in France
region delimination of where grapes had to be grown
stipulated use of 13 varieties of grapes (18 if you count the colors of varieties)
min alcohol of 12.5% without chaptalization
allows both red and white (more than 90% is red)
272
What is the red wine made from in Chateauneuf du Pape?
principally Grenache Noir with Mourvedre and Syrah
273
What is the white wine made from in Chateauneuf du Pape?
Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Roussane
274
What two white varieties are not permitted in Chateauneuf du Pape?
Viognier and Marsanne
275
What is causing attention to be drawn to Mourvedre?
intense black fruit
276
What makes Mourvedre difficult to succeed?
need sufficient moisture in the soil
277
How are grapes harvested in Chateauneuf du Pape?
they must be picked by hand
278
What are the stipulations on varietals for Chateauneuf du Pape and how does this impact wines?
there are no stipulations and therefore single varietal wines can be made
279
How large is Chateauneuf du Pape AOC?
3000 ha
280
What kind of soils does Chateauneuf du Pape have?
limestone, clay, sandstone, and sandy soils
clay being helping in its water holding capacity in a region with dry summers.
281
What leads to smaller crops of ripe grapes in Chateauneuf du Pape?
low fertility and generally fast-draining soils are highly suitable for growing vines and reducing vegetative growth
282
what were average yields for the decade to 2018
just under 30 hl/ha
283
What are galets roules
large pebbles that radiate heat at night adding to the warming effect in Chateauneuf du Pape
284
What is warming climate contributing to in grapes?
higher sugar levels
285
How do many producers gain more complexity in Chateauneuf du Pape?
blending across lieux dits and soil types
286
What do producers believe about wines from soil types that are sandy in Chateauneuf du Pape?
wines are finer and lighter in style
287
What do producers believe about wines from soils types that have more large pebbles in Chateauneuf du Pape?
wines are more structured
288
General SAT for Chateauneuf du Pape red wines
med ruby in color
med+ to pronounced intensity of ripe red plum and blackberry fruit with spice notes and sometimes new oak notes
med acidity
high alcohol
tannins vary from med - to high
good to outstanding
mid priced to super premium
289
What varietals are used to make white Chateauneuf du Pape?
Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Roussane, and other local varieties
290
How are white wines fermented in Chateauneuf du Pape?
some high-quality ones are fermented in oak barrels for additional complexity while other are not in order to preserve fruitiness and freshness
291
How are white wines matured in Chateauneuf du Pape?
either in tanks or oak barrels occassionally with a proportion of new oak
292
what has been the newest trend for white wines from Chateauneuf du Pape?
more floral, lighter and fresher in style
293
Where can you find Lirac AOC?
across the river from Chateauneuf du Pape AOC
294
What kinds of wines are found in Lirac AOC?
red, some rose and white wines
295
What are the principal varieties of red wines in Lirac AOC?
Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault which together must make up 90% of the final blend
296
What makes for good growing conditions in Lirac AOC?
high sunlight hours and well drained infertile soils
297
Who are some significant producers from Lirac AOC?
Domaine de la Mordoree
298
Which appellation is solely dedicated to rose wines?
Tavel AOC
299
How many varietals are allowed in Tavel AOC?
12 - no varietal may make up more than 60% of the final blend
300
What must the final blend of Tavel AOC wine be made of?
Grenache Noir
301
What is the max yield in Tavel AOC?
46 hl/ha
302
General SAT for Tavel wines
med intensity
pink orange
much darker than other roses
med to med + intensity of strawberry, raspberry fruit
med+ to full body
med alcohol but at the top end
good to very good
mid to premium priced
303
What else do "other Rhone Appellations" often go by?
satellite appellations
304
Where are the other Rhone Appellations found
surrounding Cote du Rhone in Southern Rhone
305
What are the largest other Rhone Appellations by production level?
Costieres de Nimes, Grignan les Adhemar, Ventoux, and Luberon
306
Where is Ventoux appellation located?
in south-east of Southern Rhone on southern and western slopes below high Mont Ventoux
307
What is Mont Ventoux
an important cooling influence in Ventoux appellation due to the altitude and cool air coming down from the top of the mountain giving freshness to the wines
308
HOw high are vines grown in Ventoux appellation?
450 m
309
What are the percentages of each wine style made in Ventoux appellation?
almost 2/3 = red
1/3 = rose
very small proportion made of white
310
What are the principal varietals found in ventoux?
Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignan, and Cinsault for reds which must be 50% of final blend and at least 2 varieties must be included
311
What is max yield in Ventoux
60 hl/ha - leading to wines with light concentration
312
How much does Ventoux appellation export?
about 1/4 of their production
co-operatives are very important in this area
313
What are the quality and prices of Ventoux wines?
good to very good
inexpensive to mid-priced with a few premium priced
314
Where does Costieres de Nimes AOC lie?
between the Rhone and eastern Languedoc
southwest limit of the Rhone region
315
Where are vines grown in Costieres de Nimes AOC
on southwest facing slopes making for good sunlight interception and is ventilated by breezes from the Mediterranean
316
What types of wines are produced in Costieres de Nimes AOC
almost 2/3 are red wines
1/3 rose
small proportion fo white
317
What varietals are used for Costieres de Nimes AOC
principal varietals for red are Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre which together or singly must make up 50% of the final blend
318
What is the max yield for Costieres de Nimes AOC
60 hl/ha
319
What are Costieres de Nimes AOC wineries mostly dominated by in recent years?
move from co-operatives to more smaller privately owned estates
320
Quality and prices for Costieres de Nimes AOC
good to very good
inexpensive to mid priced with few wines at premium price
321
Where is Luberon AOC found?
the southeast of Rhone Valley and borders Provence
322
Where are vines planted in Luberon AOC?
gentle slopes or flat land
323
What are the principal varietals found in Luberon AOC?
Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Mourvedre
324
What is teh final blend made of in Luberon AOC?
it must include at least two of principals which singly or together must make up min of 50% of the blend
325
What is max yield for Luberon AOC?
55 hl/ha
326
What is quality and price of Luberon AOC?
good to very good
inexpensive to mid priced with a few at premium price
327
Where is the Grignan les Adhemar AOC located?
northern end of the southern Rhone
328
What kind of wines does Grignan les Adhemar AOC produce
many red blends that must have min 50% of principal Grenache Noir and Syrah in a slightly lighter style than other areas
plus white and roses
329
What is the quality and prince of Grignan les Adhemar AOC
good to very good
inexpensive to mid priced
330
What are IGP wines in southern Rhone?
may be made in addition to AOC wines = made from Rhone varieties or international varieties
331
Explain irrigation in Rhone
AOCs may apply for permission to irrigate under strict conditions with proof of water stress and no irrigation allowed after verasion. in no circumstances can irrigation be used to exceed max yield allowed by individual AOC
332
Where are many negociants located in Rhone
located in north but do business throughout the
333
How are sales divided in france for rhone wines?
supermarkets - 32%
specialist wine retail and hospitality = 29%
and discounters - 6%
334
How much wine is exported from Rhone and what are the three top markets?
33%
USA, UK and Belgium
335
What is happening in Rhone as the value of wine has risen?
more growers are making and bottling their own wines rather than selling to negociants or taking grapes to a co-operative
