The Southern Rhone

Question 1

Why is Grenache Noir often untrellised in bushes in the Rhône Valley?

Answer 1

• It’s particularly vigorous, and pruning short stops excessive leaf growth (also shelters from Mistral)
• It grows upright (so is sturdy) - less in need of trellis support - so suitable as to be trained as a bush vine
• Natural shade in summer comes from canopy growth in bush vines protecting the grapes from the hot sun.

Question 2

climate of the southern Rhone

Answer 2

• warm Mediterranean
• mild winters, very warm, dry summers
• adequate rain, but drought increasing issue
• irrigation is permitted within strict rules (sep slide)
• flatter land than north Rhone, little shelter from Mistral
  
  • bush-trained vines common for suitable varieties, especially Grenache (most planted in south)
  • Syrah usually tied to wires on trellises