Rhone Valley Flashcards
(387 cards)
1
Q
What century is viticulture thought to have first began in the Rhone Valley?
A
600 BCE
2
Q
In what century did the Catholic Church take over vine cultivation in the Rhone Valley?
A
9th century AD
3
Q
When did Pope Clement V move his court from Rome to Avignon?
A
1309
4
Q
Which Pope succeeded Pope Clement V and where did they start planting vineyards?
A
Pop John XXII began planting vines around Châteauneuf-du-Pape
5
Q
Until what year did Châteauneuf-du-Pape remain property of the papacy?
A
1791
6
Q
In what centuries did the Hermitage wines start becoming famous around Europe?
A
18th century
7
Q
Which Rhone appellation set out the original prototype for the modern AOC system?
A
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
8
Q
How many communes are covered by Côtes du Rhône AOC?
A
172
9
Q
What percentage of Côtes du Rhône AOC is made up of red, white, and rose wine?
A
Red: 87%
White: 6%
Rose: 7%
10
Q
When was Côtes-du-Rhone granted AOC status?
A
1937
11
Q
When was Côtes-du-Rhone Villages granted AOC status?
A
1966
12
Q
What is the climate of the northern Rhone and what geographical feature largely influences this?
A
Continental
The Alps
13
Q
How many communes fall under the Côtes-du-Rhone appellation in the Northern Rhone?
A
47
14
Q
What village is considered the point which splits the Northern and Southern Rhone?
A
Montelimar
15
Q
What is the climate of the Southern Rhone and which major body of water influences this?
A
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Sea
16
Q
What is the general difference between Norther Côtes-du-Rhone and Southern Côtes-du-Rhone?
A
Norther Côtes du Rhône tends to be more structured and robust
Southern Côtes du Rhône rends to be richer and juicier
17
Q
What is the key climactic influence dominating the temperatures of the whole Rhone Valley?
A
The Mistral Wind
18
Q
What is the Mistral Wine?
A
A strong, cold wind which originates from the Massif Central and blows down the Rhone River through to Provence and the Mediterranean. It is very strong and cool, which can be helpful and dangerous to vines
19
Q
Name 2 benefits of the Mistral wind on Rhone vineyards?
A
It helps cool/regulate temperatures in the vineyard
It reduces disease pressure
20
Q
Name 2 disadvantages of the Mistral Wind on Rhone vineyards?
A
It can damage vines because it is so strong if they’re not sheltered
Can impact flowering hitting yields and potential growth
21
Q
What are the 3 core grapes of Côtes du Rhône AOC?
A
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
22
Q
Which grape normally dominates the blend of a Côtes du Rhône wine?
A
Grenache
23
Q
In the Southern Côtes du Rhône, what does Syrah and Mourvèdre contribute towards a Côtes du Rhône blend?
A
Syrah gives spicy characteristics
Mourvèdre gives dark chocolate notes and intense colour
24
Q
What is the minimum amount of Grenache required for a Côtes du Rhône wine from the Southern Rhone?
A
40% Grenache
25
Which grape normally dominates Côtes du Rhône wines from the Northern Rhone?
Syrah
26
What are the 12 permited varietals for red and rose Côtes du Rhône?
Grenache
Syrah
Mourvèdre
Carignan
Cinsault
Counoise
Muscardin
Vaccarese
Picpoul Noir
Terret Noir
Grenache Gris
Clairette
27
Describe a typical Côtes du Rhône Blanc
Relatively full-bodied with notes of candied citrus fruits, acacia, herbs, straw, wax, and sometimes honey
28
What are the 8 white grape varieties which dominate Côtes du Rhône Blanc?
Grenache Blanc
Clairette
Marsanne
Roussanne
Bourboulenc
Viognier
Ugni Blanc
Picpoul Blanc
29
Describe the 1990 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
A very good, hot, vintage. Heatwaves during the summer hurt Côte-Rotie but Hermitage was perfect and will age for decades
30
Describe the 1991 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Not dissimilar to 1990 though slightly less impressive. Côte-Rôtie was the stand out
31
Describe the 1992 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Below average
Decent summer but heavy September rains ruined the harvest leading to highly variable quality which hasn’t aged well
32
Describe the 1993 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Below average
Good summer but autumn was hit by rain, hail, and mildew. Wines were light and soft and should’ve been drunk immediately
33
Describe the 1994 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Below average
Autumn rains ruined majority of wines before harvest. Wines should’ve been drunk young
34
Describe the 1995 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Hot summer making lovely ripe grapes and rich, juicy wines, though they wont last beyond 20 years. Only the top top wines will age for decades
35
Describe the 1996 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Decent year though nothing special. Wines past their best
36
Describe the 1997 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Average season making early maturing wines
37
Describe the 1998 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Very dry summer stressing vines. Very tough wines in their youth which needed long term cellaring. Drinking well 20-25 years later
38
Describe the 1999 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Exceptional
Sunny summer and harvest allowed great, even ripening which will age for decades at the top level
39
Describe the 2000 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Summer was very hot with some late august rains providing needed water. A hot, sunny September allowed for excellent harvest and charming wines. Not as good as 1999, but wines are well structured and will last beyond 20 years
40
Describe the 2001 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Almost as good as 1999, similar to 2000. Grapes had excellent ripeness and acidity and are still drinking after 20 years
41
Describe the 2002 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Below average
Poor growing season with lots of rain causing rot and uneven ripeness. Wines were ok in youth but not for aging
42
Describe the 2003 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Excellent
Exceptional heatwave in August producing wines of great concentration but still balanced. Wines will last decades
43
Describe the 2004 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Average growing season with lower yields from 2003. Many vines developed too fast and should’ve been drunk by now. Not one for the cellar
44
Describe the 2005 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Good growing season producing high quality wines though they haven’t aged as well as expected
45
Describe the 2006 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Excellent
A mixed august across the Northern Rhone but a very warm September allowed for ripe, concentrated grapes. Wines have excellent aging potential which will go for decades
46
Describe the 2007 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Tough growing season with a wet spring and patchy summer but a warm September saved much of the harvest. Côte-Rôtie performed best but all wines better drunk early
47
Describe the 2008 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Poor
Rain throughout the season led to diluted grapes and a lack of ripeness with many producing not making their top cuvées. Best to avoid and not for the cellar
48
Describe the 2009 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Warm and dry growing season with lower than normal yields and an earlier harvest. Wines have very good concentration and will last for 20 years
49
Describe the 2010 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Excellent
Low yields and exceptional quality from an almost perfect growing season. Some bottles aged better than others, but the best will go for decades
50
Describe the 2011 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
September rains ruined what would’ve been an excellent vintage diluting much of the harvest. Most wines beyond their best
51
Describe the 2012 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Average growing season though alcohols are slightly down as is acidity with more pronounced tannins. Best drunk young
52
Describe the 2013 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Despite mildew in early summer and rain in September the grapes have excellent ripeness. Reds will age very well
53
Describe the 2014 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Below average
Reds struggled to ripen and rain around harvest diluted majority of the crop. Whites performed better but neither red or white is for aging
54
Describe the 2015 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
A hot year with ripe grapes. Some producers over-extracted their wines but the best producers found perfect balance. Wines will age very well
55
Describe the 2016 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Hail damaged some crop in Hermitage and alcohols are slightly down to 2015 but the wines are ripe and have great aging potential
56
Describe the 2017 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Challenging growing season but the wines are ripe and concentrated and have great balance and age well. Hermitage is the standout
57
Describe the 2018 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
The previous 3 years cause some of the vines to be overripe but general quality is good with the better producers making wines with good aging potential
58
Describe the 2019 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
A hot and dry growing season. Some august rains in Côte-Rotie helped balanced the grapes compared to a much overripe Cornas. Majority of wines have excellent potential for aging
59
Describe the 2020 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
Uniform growing season across the region with a hot and dry summer and earlier harvest helping retain freshness
60
Describe the 2021 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Difficult year with frost devastating much of the northern Rhone followed by summer rains. Hermitage escaped the disasters producing excellent white and reds. Reds best drunk young across the region
61
Describe the 2022 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Above average
A very hot season with low yields. Heatwaves in June and July saved by some august rains. Wines have fantastic potential
62
Describe the 2023 vintage in the Northern Rhone
Average
Tough season with lots of hail in July. Côte-Rotie performed the best. Whites are bright and fresh for early drinking and reds more variable
63
When was Jean-Louis Chave established and where are their main regions of production?
1481
Hermitage and Saint Joseph
64
Name 3 of Jean-Louis Chave’s top cuvées
Hermitage Rouge Ermite Cuvée Cathelin
Hermitage Rouge
Hermitage Blanc
Hermitage Vin de Paille
Saint Joseph Rouge Clos Florentin
65
When was the first vintage of Jean-Louis Chave’s Ermitage Cuvée Cathelin and Saint Joseph Clos Florentin cuvées?
Cuvée Cathelin = 1990
Florentin = 2015
66
When was Domaine Jamet established and what are their man regions of production?
1976
Côte-Rotie and Condrieu
67
Name 3 of Domaine Jamet’s top cuvées
Côte-Rotie
Cote-Rotie Fructus Voluptas
Côte-Rotie La Landonne
Côte-Rotie Cote Brune
Condrieu Vernillon
68
When was the first vintage of Domaine Jamet’s Côte-Rotie La Landonne and Condrieu Vernillon cuvées?
La Landonne = 2018
Vernillon = 2015
69
When was Auguste Clape established and what are their main regions of production?
1907
Cornas
70
Name 3 of Auguste Clape’s top cuvées
Cornas
Cornas Renaissance
Côtes du Rhône
Le Vin des Amis
71
When was Rene Rostaing established and what are their main regions of production?
1971
Côte Rotie and Condrieu
72
Name 3 of Rene Rostaing’s top cuvées
Côte-Rotie Classique (now labelled Ampodium)
Côte-Rotie La Landonne
Côte-Rotie Cote Blonde
Condrieu La Bonnette
73
When was Thierry Allemand established and what is heir main region of production?
1981
Cornas
74
Name 2 of Thierry Allemand’s top cuvées
Cornas Reynard
Cornas Chaillot
Cornas Sans Souffre
75
When was the first vintage of Thierry Allemand’s Cornas Reynard and Cornas Chaillot?
Both 1991
76
When was E.Guigal established and what are their main regions of production?
1946
Côte-Rotie
Hermitage
Condrieu
Saint-Joseph
77
What are the 3 famous Côte-Rotie cuvées of E.Guigal and when were their first vintages?
Côte Rotie La Landonne = 1978
Côte-Rotie La Mouline = 1966
Côte-Rôtie La Turque - 1985
78
Name 5 of E.Guigal’s top cuvées
Côte-Rotie La Mouline
Côte-Rôtie La Landonne
Côte-Rôtie La Turque
Côte-Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis
Ermitage Rouge Ex-Voto
Ermitage Blanc Ex-Voto
Condrieu Luminescence
79
When was the first vintage of E.Guigal’s Ermitage Ex-Voto cuvées?
2001
80
When was Alain Graillot established and what re their main regions of production?
1985
Crozes-Hermitage
81
When was Yves Cuilleron established and what are their main regions of production?
1920
Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph
82
Name 3 of Yves Cuillerons top cuvées
Condrieu Chaillets
Condrieu Vertige
Côte Rotie Bassenon
Côte Rotie Madiniere
Côte Rotie Terres Sombres
Saint-Joseph Le Lombard
Saint-Joseph Saint-Pierre
Saint Joseph Les Serines
83
When was Pierre Gonon established and where are their main regions of production?
1958
Saint Joseph
84
Name 2 of Pierre Gonon’s top cuvées
Saint Joseph Blanc Les Olivieres
Saint Joseph Rouge VV
Saint Joseph
85
When was Domaine Ogier established and what is their main region of production?
1982
Cote-Rôtie
86
Name 2 of Domaine Ogier’s top cuvées
Côte-Rotie La Belle Helene
Côte-Rotie Lancement
Cote-Rotie
87
When was M. Chapoutier established and what is their main region of production?
1808
Hermitage but they own vineyards across the Rhone Valley
88
Name 5 of M. Chapoutier’s top cuvées
Ermitage Blanc de l’Oree
Ermitage Blanc et Rouge L’Hermite
Ermitage Blanc et Rouge Le Meal
Ermitage Rouge Les Greffieux
Ermitage Rouge Le Pavillon
Côte-Rotie La Mordoree
Saint Joseph Blanc et Rouge Les Granits
Hermitage Vin de Paille
89
When was the first vintage of M. Chapoutier’s:
- Ermitage Blanc de l’Oree
- Ermitage Rouge Le Meal
- Ermitage Rouge Le Pavillon
Blanc de l’Oree = 1991
Rouge Le Meal = 1989
Rouge Le Pavillon = 1989
90
When was Georges Vernay located and what are their main regions of production?
1953
Condrieu and Côte-Rotie
91
Name 3 of Georges Vernay’s top cuvées
Condrieu Terrases de l’Empire
Condrieu Chaillees de l’Enfer
Condrieu Coteau du Vernon
Côte-Rotie Maison Rouge
Côte-Rotie Blonde de Seigneur
92
When was Paul Jaboulet Aîné established and what are their main regions of production?
1834
Hermitage and Crozes Hermitage though they own land across the Northern Rhone
93
Name 3 of Paul Jaboulet Aine’s top cuvées
Hermitage Rouge La Chapelle
Hermitage Blanc La Chapelle
Hermitage Blanc Chevalier de Sterimberg
Crozes-Hermitage Domaine Thalabert
Crozes-Hermitage Rouge Domaine de Roure
Crozes-Hermitage Blanc Domaine de Roure
94
When was the first vintage of Paul Jaboulet Aîné’s Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Roure?
1996 for rouge and Blanc
95
When was Clusel-Roch established and what is their main region of production?
Established 1969
Côte-Rotie
96
Name 2 of Clusel-Roch’s top cuvées
Côte-Rotie Les Grandes Places
Côte-Rotie La Viallerie
Côte-Rotie
97
What was the first vintage of Clusel-Roch’s Les Grands Places?
1988
98
Name the 3 top cuvées of Chateau Grillet
Chateau Grillet
La Cathery
Pontcin
99
When was the first vintage of Chateau Grillet’s Pontcin?
2011
100
When was Jean-Michel Stephan established and what is their main region of production?
Established 1994
Côte-Rotie
101
Name 3 of Jean-Michel Stephan's top cuvées
Côte-Rotie
Cote-Rotie Coteaux du Bassenon
Côte-Rotie Coteaux de Tupin
Côte-Rotie VV en Coteaux
102
When was Delas Freres established and what is their main region of production?
1835
Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, Cote-Rotie
103
Name 3 of Delas Freres top cuvées
Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes
Hermitage Les Bessards
Hermitage Blanc Marquis de la tourette
Cote-Rotie La Landonne
Cote-Rotie Seigneur de Maugiron
Saint Josepg Sainte-Epine
104
When were the first vintages of Delas Frere's Hermitage Domaine des Tourettes and Hermitage Les Bessards cuvees?
2009 and 1990 respectively
105
Where is Cote-Rotie located?
Right bank of the Rhone River just west of the town of Ampuis
106
What is the literal translation of Cote-Rotie?
Roasted slope
107
When was Cote-Rotie granted AOC?
1940
108
How many lieu-dites are officially recognised and permitted to produce Cote-Rotie?
73
109
What gradient are some of the vines planted on in Cote Rotie? (making them some of the steepest in the world)
60 degree gradients
110
What systems are often required for harvesting in Cote-Rotie?
Pulley systems and monorails
111
What are the 2 best slopes within Cote-Rotie?
Cote Brune and Cote Blonde
112
What are the soils of Cote Brune and how does this impact the wines?
Soils are reddish-brown and enriched with iron. Wines are often tighter and smokier
113
What are the soils of Cote Blonde?
Lighter coloured sandy soils derived from granite over a limestone base
114
What are the 3 famous lieu dits in the centre of the Cote-Rotie appellation? Which is the only one officially recognised?
La Mouline
La Landonne
La Turque
La Landonne is the only officially recognised site
115
What Cote-Rotie slope is La Mouline located on?
Cote- Blonde
116
Which producer has been making wines from La Mouline in Cote-Rotie since 1966?
E. Guigal
117
Which Cote-Rotie slope is La Landonne located on?
Cote Brune
118
Which Cote-Rotie slope is La Turque located on?
Cote Brune
119
What are the permitted grapes of Cote-Rotie?
Syrah and Viognier
Viognier cannot exceed 20% of any Cote-Rotie wine
120
What is the benefit of adding Viognier to a Cote-Rotie wine?
It stabilises colour and softens the wine making it more approachable
121
What are the soils of Côte-Rotie?
Based on granite soils. Mica Schist in the north, gneiss to the south and migmatite in the far southeast
122
What is the climate of Côte-Rotie?
Semi-continental
123
Where is Condrieu located?
Directly south along the right bank of the Rhone from Côte-Rotie
124
What is the only permitted grape of Condrieu?
Viognier
125
What is the climate of Condrieu?
Continental with some Mediterranean influence
126
What are the soils of Condrieu?
An alluvial mix of chalk, flint, and mica over deep granite and clay
127
What topsoil do the best Condrieu vineyards have?
A topsoil locally known as arzelle which is a powdery, mica-rich soil
128
When was the Condrieu appellation granted?
1940
129
What are some typical aromas of a good Condrieu?
Floral perfumes of violets and fruity notes of mango, white peach and apricot with hints of gingerbread and tobasco
130
Are sweet wines permitted under the Condrieu appellation?
Yes
131
When may sweet Condrieu grapes be picked?
No earlier than 8 days after the standard harvest q
132
What is the IGP which covers Condrieu?
IGP Collins Rhodaniennes
133
Where is Chateau Grillet located?
Within the boundaries of Condrieu
134
How large is Chateau Grillet AOC?
3.5ha
135
Who produces Chateau Grillet AOC?
It's a monopole of the producer of the same name owned by investment firm Artemis
136
Before being bought by Artemis in 2011, who owned Chateau Grillet for 200 years?
the Neyret-Gachet family
137
What are the average age of the vines in Chateau Grillet?
40 years
138
What is the only permitted grape of Chateau Grillet?
Viognier
139
When was Chateau Grillet granted AOC status?
1936
140
What are the soils of Chateau Grillet?
Granite bedrock with topsoils of clay and decomposed granite
141
What are typical aromas of Chateau Grillet?
Fruity aromas of peach and apricot
142
Where is Saint-Joseph located?
Goes south from Condrieu on the right bank of the Rhone
143
When was Saint-Joseph granted AOC?
1956
144
What is the climate of Saint-Joseph?
Semi-continental with Mediterranean influences
145
What are the soils throughout most of Saint-Joseph?
A mix of clay, sand, and granite, with granite dominating. In the south is an area of gneiss and acidic granite
146
What are the permitted grape varieties within Saint-Joseph?
Syrah, Marsanne, and Roussanne
147
What are the permitted grapes for red Saint-Joseph wines?
Wines must be minimum 90% Syrah with up to 10% of Marsanne or Roussanne allowed
148
What does Marsanne and Roussanne give to white Saint-Joseph blends?
Marsanne is powerful with medium acidity and floral aromas. Roussanne gives a range of aromas with apricot, green coffee, and honeysuckle
149
How many communes does Saint-Joseph covers?
26
150
Where is Hermitage located?
On the left bank of the Rhone River where it makes a sharp s-turn
151
When was Hermitage granted AOC?
1937
152
When was Hermitage the official wine of the French courts?
17th century
153
Which wines famously used the name of Hermitage before it was legally protected in 1989?
Penfolds Grange was previously labelled as Grange Hermitage
154
What are the grapes permitted in the red wines of Hermitage?
Minimum 85% Syrah (though normally 100%) with up to 15% of Marsanne and/or Roussanne
155
What are the permitted grapes for white Hermitage?
Roussanne and Marsanne
156
How is Hermitage Vin de Paille made?
Wines are made from Marsanne and Roussanne which have been dried out in the sun or straw mats to concentrate sugars and make a sweet wines
157
What is the base soil of the Hermitage hill?
Granite
158
What are the soils of the Hermitage hill?
Sandy gravel in the west
Rockier on top of the hill
Limestone in the centre of the hill
159
Where are the best vines on the Hermitage hill?
Around the west of the hill
160
What is the westernmost climat of Hermitage?
La Varogne
161
Which 3 climats are east of La Varogne on the Hermitage hill?
Les Bessards, Le Meal, Les Greffieux
162
Which Hermitage climat lies to the east of Les Greffieux covering a thin strip north-south of the hill?
Beaume
163
What are the 3 climats east of Beaume towards the east of the Hermitage hill?
Maison Blanche, Recoule and Peleat
164
What is the easternmost climat of the Hermitage hill?
Murets
165
Which 2 famous climats sit at the top of the Hermitage hill?
L'Hermite and La Chapelle
166
From which Hermitage climats does the appellations most tannic and dense wines come from?
Bessards and Le Meal
167
Which 4 producers dominate Hermitage production?
Paul Jaboulet Aine
Delas Freres
M. Chapoutier
Jean-Louis Chave
168
Who owns vines on Hermitage except for the main 4 producers?
Cave de Tain, a co-op of producers owning roughly 28ha
169
Who is the Hermitage hill named after?
A crusading knight named Gaspard de Sterimberg in 1224
170
Where is Crozes Hermitage located?
The area around the Hermitage hill, including the less exposed northern slopes and south of the town of Tain L’Hermitage
171
When was Crozes-Hermitage granted AOC?
1937
172
How much of Crozes-Hermitage’s production is red?
90%
173
What grapes are permitted into Crozes-Hermitage’s red wines?
Like Hermitage, the reds must be minimum 85% Syrah and can be supported with 15% Marsanne and/or Roussanne. Most reds are 100% Syrah
174
What are the soils of Crozes-Hermitage?
Northern Crozes is granite bedrock with topsoils of clay-limestone
Southern Crozes is a mix of red clay and pebbles with silt deposits
175
Which producer owns roughly 40% of Crozes-Hermitage?
The co-operative Cave de Tain
176
Where is Cornas located?
West bank of the Rhone River just southwest from Hermitage
177
When was Cornas granted AOC?
1938
178
What are the soils of Cornas?
Dominated by decomposed granite with sandy clay topsoils known as gores. There are also areas of silt and limestone
179
What grapes are permitted in Cornas?
Syrah is the only permitted grape
180
Which part of Cornas is considered to produce the best wines?
The northwest
181
Where is Saint-Peray located?
West bank of the Rhone River south of Cornas
182
What wines are permitted from Saint-Peray?
White still and sparkling wines
183
What is the dominant grape of Saint-Peray?
Marsanne
184
What is the supporting grape of Saint-Peray?
Roussanne
185
What are the soils of Saint-Peray?
Limestone rich with less granite than further north
186
When was Saint-Peray granted AOC?
1936
187
What method is used for the sparking wines of Saint-Peray?
Traditional method
188
Where is Cremant de Die located?
Around the town of Die East of the Rhone Valley and Southeast of Valence
189
What are the permitted varieties in the final blend of Cremant de Die?
Minimum 55% Clairette supported by Aligote and a maximum 10% Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains
190
What are the aging regulations and sugar regulations for Cremant de Die?
Minimum 12 months on the lees and a maximum 15g/l residual sugar
191
What are the soils of the Die appellations?
Soils are generally chalky clay and sedimentary rock
192
What is the average altitude range for vineyards around the town of Die?
400-700m altitude
193
What method is used to produce Cremant de Die and Clairette de Die?
Traditional method
194
What grapes are permitted for Clairette de Die?
Clairette only
195
What method is used to produce wines for Clairette de Die Tradition?
Methode Ancestrale
196
What is the minimum sugar Clairette de Die Tradition must be bottled with?
55g/l
197
What are the grape requirements for Clairette de Die Tradition?
Minimum 75% Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains and maximum 25% Clairette. Gamay is also permitted
198
What wines are produced under the Coteaux de Die appellation?
Still white wines
199
What is the only permitted grape variety of Coteaux de Die?
Clairette
200
Where is the appellation of Chatillon en Diois located?
Further east up the Drome river
201
What is the average altitude of Chatillon en Diois?
700m
202
What grapes are permitted for the white wines of Chatillon en Diois?
Aligote and Chardonnay
203
What are the grape requirements for the red and rose wines of Chatillon en Diois?
Minimum 75% Gamay blended with Pinot Noir and Syrah
204
When was Chatillon en Diois granted AOC?
1975
205
Describe the 1990 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Excellent
Hot vintage with great concentration aging for 30 years
206
Describe the 1991 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Poor
Most grapes flowered very poorly with little ripeness
207
Describe the 1992 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Poor
Torrential rains during harvest diluted crop
208
Describe the 1993 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Poor
Torrential rains during harvest diluted crops
209
Describe the 1994 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Good growing season with some rain later in harvest
210
Describe the 1995 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Great concentration without the aging potential of 1990
211
Describe the 1996 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Below average
Cool and damp summer producing light and youthful wines
212
Describe the 1997 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Grapes overripe with low acidity not for aging. Best producers did well
213
Describe the 1998 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Plenty of warmth and ripeness. Wines had great aging potential
214
Describe the 1999 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Challenging vintage with heavy rains around harvest making quality variable
215
Describe the 2000 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Excellent conditions though some late-September rains. Earlier pickings created rich, plump wines
216
Describe the 2001 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Excellent conditions with decent balance though slightly low acidity so wines won't age long
217
Describe the 2002 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Poor
Very wet throughout season and floods before harvest destroyed crops
218
Describe the 2003 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Very hot with low tannin and high acidity which haven't aged well
219
Describe the 2004 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Lack concentration though balance is good. Best youthful
220
Describe the 2005 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Great concentration and consistency which will age well
221
Describe the 2006 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Excellent
Fantastic balance and concentration which will age for decades
222
Describe the 2007 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
A wet spring led way to a hot summer with good ripeness and balance and good aging potential
223
Describe the 2008 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Below average
Rain around harvest ruined much of the crop and best youthful
224
Describe the 2009 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Great conditions throughout the year and plenty of ripeness. Some wines too alcoholic
225
Describe the 2010 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Excellent
Perfect vintage with ripeness, precision, and freshness which will age well
226
Describe the 2011 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Good yields and quality but not near the previous years quality with unbalanced tannins
227
Describe the 2012 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Not easy. Average alcohols and low acidity and yields. Wines best young
228
Describe the 2013 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Coulure plagued vineyards dropping yields but careful selection allowed for some decent quality. Best youthful
229
Describe the 2014 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Light vintage with low alcohol and ripeness after a mild winter and cool summer. Sorting essential to avoid greenness. Best youthful
230
Describe the 2015 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Grenache damaged by coulure lowering yields but remaining grapes of great quality with slightly elevated alcohols. Average aging potential
231
Describe the 2016 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Excellent
Warm conditions throughout season resulted in great concentration and aging potential
232
Describe the 2017 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Frost and rain made for a tough start but quality is high with small, concentrated berries
233
Describe the 2018 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Low yields but better than 2017. Perfect September weather with excellent ripeness and concentration. Great aging potential
234
Describe the 2019 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Hot and dry summer with thicker skins. Great quality if not over-extracted
235
Describe the 2020 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Good spring and hot summer. Wines fresh and fruity with balance but best youthful
236
Describe the 2021 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Average
Frost in April delayed ripening with a hot and dry summer but rain around harvest. Earlier pickings better. Best youthful
237
Describe the 2022 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Excellent
Hot and dry with some august rains bringing needed water. Wines dense, elegant, and powerful and have great aging potential
238
Describe the 2023 vintage in the Southern Rhone
Above average
Hot and dry vintage with plentiful ripeness though some high alcohols. Balance generally good with decent aging potential
239
When was Chateau Rayas established and what are their regions of production?
1880
Chateauneuf du Pape
240
Name 3 of Chateau Rayas' top cuvees
CNDP Reserve Rouge
CNDP Reserve Blanc
CNDP Pignan Reserve
CDR Pialade
Chateau de Fonsalette CDR
241
When was Chateau de Beaucastel established and what are their regions of production?
1909
Chateaneuf du Pape
242
Name 3 of Chateau de Beaucastel's top cuvees
CNDP Blanc/Rouge
CNDP Hommage a Jacques Perrin
CNDP Roussanne VV
CDR Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc/Rouge
243
When was the first vintage of Chateau de Beaucastel's CNDP Hommage a Jacques Perrin?
1989
244
When was Domaine de Vieux Telegraphe established and what are their regions of production?
1898
Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas
245
Name 3 of Domaine de Vieux Telegraphe's top cuvees
CNDP La Crau Blanc/Rouge
Telegramme CNDP Blanc/Rouge
Domaine la Roquette CNDP
Domaine las Pallieres Gigondas Les Racines
Famille Brunier CNDP Piedlong
246
When was the first vintage of Domaine de Vieux Telegraphe's Telegramme CNDP?
2002
247
When was Domaine du Pegau established and what are their regions of production?
1987
Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas
248
Name 3 of Domaine du Pegau's top cuvees
CNDP Cuvee Reserve
CNDP Cuvee Laurence
CNDP Cuvee a Tempo
CNDP Cuvee da Capo
CNDP Cuvee Inspiration
249
When was Henri Bonneau established and what are their regions of production?
1956
Chateaneuf du Pape
250
Name 2 of Henri Bonneau's top cuvees
CNDP Reserve des Celestins
CNDP Cuvee Marie Beurrier
CNDP Cuvee Speciale
251
When was Clos de Papes established and what are their regions of production?
1902
Chateauneuf du Pape
252
Name 2 of Clos des Pape's top cuvees
CNDP Blanc/Rouge
Le Petit Vin d'Avril Blanc/Rouge
253
When was Chateau La Narthe established and what are their regions of production?
1560
Chateauneuf du Pape
254
Name 3 of Chateau La Nerthe's top cuvees
CNDP Blanc/Rouge
CNDP Cuvee des Cadettes
CNDP Les Granieres de la Nerthe
CNDP Clos de Beauevnir
CNDP Les Clavelles
255
When was Domaine Charvin established and what are their regions of production?
1851
Chateauneuf du Pape
256
Name the 2 cuvees of Domaine Charvin
CNDP
Cotes du Rhone
257
When was Domaine de la Solitude established and what are their regions of production?
1600
Chateauneuf du Pape
258
Name 2 of Domaine de la Solitude's cuvees
CNDP Blanc/Rouge
CNDP Cuvee Barberini Blanc/Rouge
CNDP Reserve Secrete
CNDP Cuvee Cornelia Constanza
259
When was Domaine de la Mordoree established and what are their regions of production?
1986
Chateauneuf du Pape and most Southern Rhone Crus, Condrieu
260
Name 3 of Domaine de la Mordoree's top cuvees
CNDP La Reine des Bois
CNDP La Plume de Peintre
Condrieu Cuvee Christophe Delorme
Tavel La Plume de Peintre
Lirac La Plume de Peintre
261
When was Clos Saint Jean established and what are their regions of production?
1900
Chateauneuf du Pape
262
Name 3 of Clos Saint Jean's top cuvees
CNDP
CNDP La Combe des Fous
CNDP Deus Ex Machina
CNDP Sanctus Sanctorum
CNDP Chimere
263
When was Domaine Beaurenard established and what are their regions of production?
1695
Chateauneuf du Pape, Rasteau
264
Name 2 of Domaine Beaurenard's top cuvees
CNDP
CNDP Boisrenard
Rasteau
Rasteau Les Argiles Bleus
265
When was Domaine Giraud established and what are their regions of production?
1974
Chateauneuf du Pape, Lirac
266
Name 2 of Domaine Giraud's top cuvees
CNDP
CNDP Les Gallimardes
CNDP Les Grenaches de Pierre
Lirac Vielles Vignes
267
Where is Grignan-les-Adhemar located?
Just around the town of Montelimar. It is the northernmost appellation of the southern Rhone
268
What was the former name of Grignan-les-Adhemar AOC?
Coteaux du Tricastin
269
What are the permitted red grape varieties of Grignan-les-Adhemar AOC?
Grenache and Syrah are the primary grapes
Up to 15% of Carignan, Mourvedre, or Cinsault are permitted as long as they don't exceed 30% together
270
What are the permitted white grape varieties of Grignan-les-Adhemar AOC?
Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier. No single variety can makeup more than 60% of a blend
271
What is the climate of Grignan-les-Adhemar?
Mediterranean
272
What are the soils of Grignan-les-Adhemar?
Clay-limestone with varied topsoils
273
Where is Cotes de Vivarais located?
Southwest of Montelimar in the Southern Rhone
274
When was the Cotes de Vivarais AOC granted?
1999
275
What are the permitted grape varieties of Cotes de Vivarais red wines?
Grenache (min. 30%) and Syrah (min. 40%)
276
What are the grape varieties of Cotes de Vivarais rose wines?
Grenache (60-80%) and Syrah
277
What are the grape varieties of Cotes de Vivarais white wines?
Grenache Blanc (min. 50%), Clairette, and Marsanne
278
What is the dominant soil of Cotes de Vivarais?
Limestone
279
Where is Vinsobres located?
Southheast of Montelimar and northeast of Orange
280
When was Vinsobres first granted as a Cotes-du-Rhone Villages sub-appellation and then promoted to full appellation?
Sub-appellation in 1967
Full appellation in 2006
281
What are the soils of Vinsobres?
Limestone with varying topsoils of alluvial, marl and sandy soils
282
What wines are permitted from Vinsobres?
Still red white wines. White and rose wines released as Cotes-du-Rhone
283
What are the permitted grape varieties of Vinsobres?
Grenache (min. 50%), Syrah, Mourvedre
284
Where is Rasteau located?
Northeast of Orange
285
When was Rasteau promoted from Cotes-du-Rhone Villages to appellation?
2010
286
Which river runs through Rasteau?
The Ouveze River, a tributary of the Rhone
287
What are the soils of Rasteau?
Clay and limestone base covered with rounded cobbles
288
What are the permitted grape varieties of Rasteau?
Grenache (min. 50%), Syrah and Mourvèdre
289
When was Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel AOC granted?
1944
290
What are the grape requirements for red Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel?
Minimum 75% Grenache Noir supported by Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris
291
What are the grape requirements for white Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel?
Minimum 90% Grenache Blanc and/or Grenache Gris
292
How is Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel made?
Wines are made by using grape spirit to stop fermentation while there is still sugar fermenting. This results in a high alcohol, sweet wine
293
What are the 2 main styles of Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel?
Rasteau Dore - made like a rose using the saignee method
Rasteau Rancio - aged for a min. 12 months and deliberately oxidised during this
294
Where is Cairanne AOC located?
East of Orange off the Rhone River
295
What wines are permitted from Cairanne AOC?
Red, white, and rose wines
296
When was Cairanne granted full appellation status?
2016 after being a Cotes-du-Rhone Villages
297
What are the p-remitted grape varieties of Cairanne?
Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre are the primary grapes.
Cinsault and Carignan are permitted but cannot makeup more than 30% of vine plantings
298
Which Rhone tributary flows through Cairanne AOC?
Aigues River
299
What are the soils of Cairanne?
Predominantly limestone and alluvial from local streams with topsoils of red, iron rich earth and sandstone
300
What are the permitted 7 white grape varieties of Cairanne?
Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Viognier, Picquepoul
301
When was Gigondas granted AOC status?
1971
302
What mountains is Gigondas located on the foothills of?
Dentelles de Montmirail foothills
303
What are the soils of Gigondas?
Limestone mixed with clay and rocky, sandy soils
304
What are the required grape varieties for red Gigondas?
Minimum 50% Grenache
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and/or Cinsault must makeup 90% of any red blend
305
When were white wines permitted under the Gigondas appellation?
2022
306
What grapes are permitted for white Gigondas?
Clairette (min. 70%)
Supported by Bourboulenc, Clairette Rose, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, Marsanne, Piquepoul and/or Roussanne
Viognier and Ugni Blanc are permitted up to 5% in the blend
307
What are the minimum alcohol levels required for Gigondas?
12.5% ABV
308
When was Vacqueyras upgraded to AOC status?
1990
309
What are the grape requirements for red Vacqueyras?
Minimum 50% Grenache with minimum 20% Syrah and Mourvèdre together. Other varieties can account for 10%
310
What are the grape requirements for Vacqueyras rose?
Minimum 60% Grenache supported with a minimum 15% Cinsault and/or Mourvèdre
311
What are the permitted grapes varieties for Vacqueyras white wines?
Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier. One grape cannot account for more than 80% of any blend
312
What are the soils of Vacqueyras?
Very similar to Gigondas. Region sits in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail giving limestone soils with topsoils of alluvial sandy clay and cobbles
313
Where is Chateauneuf-du-Pape located?
South of Orange and north of Avignon along the Rhone River
314
What is the minimum permitted alcohol for wines from Chateaneuf-du-Pape?
12.5%
315
What are the 3 principle grape varieties for red Chateaneuf-du-Pape?
Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre
316
What percentage of vineyards do Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s primary 3 red grapes make up?
90%
317
What are the supporting red grapes of Chateauneuf-du-Pape?
Cinsault
Counoise
Muscardin
Vaccarese
Picpoul Noir
Terret Noir
318
What are the primary grapes varieties varieties for white Chateauneuf-du-Pape?
Grenache Blanc
Roussanne
Clairette
Bourboulenc
319
What are the supporting grape varieties of white Chateauneuf-du-Pape?
Clairette Rose
Grenache Gris
Picardin
Picpoul Gris
Picpoul Blanc
320
Which 2 producers are known for using almost all permitted grapes in their Chateauneuf-du-Pape blends?
Chateau Beaucastel
Paul Avril Clos de Papes
321
What does Syrah bring to a red Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines?
Brings structure and spiced black-fruit notes
322
What does Mourvèdre bring to a red Chateauneuf-du-Pape blend?
Dark depth and bitter chocolate notes
323
What are the soils of Chateauneuf-du-Pape?
Soils are pebbly and sandy created from ancient riverbeds. The large pebbles are known locally as galets. Under the galets is a mix of red clay, sand, and sandstone
324
Who drafted the appellation laws of Chateauneuf-du-Pape which became the archetype of the appellation system across France?
Barón le Roy, owner of Chateau Fortia
325
Where is Beaumes de Venice located?
East of Orange near the Rhone River
326
When was Beaumes de Venice granted appellation status?
2005
327
What is the Canal du Carpentras?
A canal crafted through Beaumes de Venise to facilitate irrigation in hot years
328
What are the soils of Beaumes de Venise?
Appellation is at the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail and so limestone dominates
329
What are the grape requirements of Beaumes de Venise?
Minimum 50% Grenache complemented by 25-50% Syrah. Other Rhone varietals are permitted to a maximum 25%, including up to 10% white varieties
330
What is the name of the Vin Doux Naturel appellation covering the same area as Beaumes de Venise?
Muscat Beaumes de Venise
331
What are the permitted grapes varieties of Muscat Beaumes de Venise?
Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains and Muscat Noir (dark skinned mutation)
332
When was Muscat Beaumes de Venise granted its appellation?
1945
333
How are Muscat Beaumes de Venise wines made?
The normal process of Vin Doux Naturel. Wines go through mutage which is when neutral grape spirits is added to arrest fermentation leading to a high alcohol, high sugar wine
334
What are the minimum sugar levels of Muscat at harvest for Muscat Beaumes de Venise?
252g/l
335
What is the minimum required alcohol for Muscat Beaumes de Venise?
15% ABV
336
What are the typical aromas of Muscat Beaumes de Venise?
Delicate vegetal notes and tropical fruits developing into honey, dried apricot, and raisins
337
What wines are permitted under Lirac AOC?
Still red, rose, and white wines
338
Where is Lirac located?
West of the Rhone River and the city Orange
339
When was Lirac granted its AOC?
1947
340
What are the soils of Lirac?
Upper terraces made of red clay and large pebbles
Lower vineyards made from loess and/or clay-limestone
341
What are the primary red grapes of Lirac AOC?
Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre
342
What are the primary white grapes of Lirac?
Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne
343
What style of wine does Tavel AOC specialise in?
Still rose wines
344
When did Tavel receive its AOC?
1936
345
Which 3 grapes dominate Tavel wines?
Grenache, Syrah and Clairette
346
What is Nouveau Tavel?
Like in Beaujolais, young and fresh rose wines are released on the third Thursday of November and are designed to be drunk young
347
What are the soils of Tavel?
Stony and sandy with patches of limestone and red iron-rich soils
348
What wines are permitted under the Cotes-du-Rhone village?
Still red, rose and white wines
349
When was Cotes-du-Rhone Villages appellation introduced?
1966
350
How many villages may append their name under the Cotes-du-Rhone Villages appellation?
22
351
What are the grape requirements for red Cotes-du-Rhone Villages?
Blends must contain Grenache and at least one of Syrah or Mourvèdre if not both, which in total must make a minimum 2/3 of any red wine.
These grapes may be supported by a long list of complementary grapes
352
What percentage of white grapes are permitted in a Cotes-du-Rhone Villages rose blend?
20%
353
What are the primary grapes of white Cotes-du-Rhone Villages?
Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Viognier
354
What are the maximum yields of Cotes-du-Rhone Villages?
44hl/ha
355
What are the maximum yields of normal Cotes-du-Rhone?
60hl/ha
356
When was Duché d’Uzes granted AOc status?
2013
357
What was Duché d’Uzes known as before being granted its AOC status?
Vin de Pays de Duché
358
What are the soils of Duché d’Uzes?
A mix of sandstone, marl, and limestone
359
What are the grape requirements for red Duché d’Uzes?
Minimum 40% Syrah and 20% Grenache, supported by Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Cinsault
360
What are the grape requirements for Duché d’Uzes rose?
Minimum 50% Grenache and minimum 20% Syrah supported by Cinsault
361
What are the grape requirements for Duché d’Uzes?
Minimum 40% Viognier, minimum 30% Grenache Blanc, and a minimum 20% Marsanne, Roussanne, and/or Rolle
362
What is the local known for Vermentino in Southern France?
Rolle
363
Where is Ventoux located?
Far southeast of the Southern Rhone on the border with Provence
364
When was Ventoux upgraded from Cotes de Ventoux to its own appellation?
2009
365
What are the primary red grape varieties of Ventoux?
Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre
366
What are common secondary red grapes for Ventoux?
Carignan and Cinsault
367
What are the primary white grapes of Ventoux?
Clairette, Bourboulenc and Grenache Blanc
368
Which mountain overlooks the Ventoux appellation?
Mont Ventoux
369
What are the dominant soils of Ventoux?
Limestone with a mix of sand and clay
370
When was Cotes de Ventoux made an appellation?
1973
371
Where is Luberon located?
Between Ventoux and Provence
372
When was Luberon granted full AOC status?
1988
373
What mountain overlooks Luberon?
Mont Ventoux
374
What is the IGP which overlaps Luberon?
IGP Vaucluse
375
What are the primary grapes of red Luberon wines?
Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre
376
What are the primary white grapes of Luberon?
Grenache Blanc, Ugni Banc, Rolle, Bourboulenc, Clairette
377
What style of wine dominates output for Luberon?
Still, rose wines
378
What are the soils of Luberon?
A mix of sandstone and limestone with red clay
379
Where is Costières de Nîmes located?
The Rhône’s southernmost appellation bordering the Languedoc
380
What are the soils of Costières de Nîmes?
Patches of large rock and pebbles with red, sandy clays
381
What is the French garrigue landscape composed of?
A Southern French landscape composed of dry, low-lying scrubland over limestone soils
382
What are the grape requirements for red Costières de Nîmes?
Minimum 60% Grenache, Syrah, and/or Mourvèdre
383
What are the grape requirements for rose Costières de Nîmes?
The same as for red, minimum 60% Grenache, Syrah and/or Mourvèdre
384
When was Costières de Nîmes granted AOC status?
1986
385
What is the only permitted grape variety of Clairette de Bellegarde?
Clairette
386
Where is Clairette de Bellegarde located?
Far southwest of the Southern Rhone within Costières de Nîmes
387
When was Clairette de Bellegarde granted AOC status?
1949
