Flashcards in C21 - Southern France Deck (72)
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1
Describe the climate of Southern France
It has a warm mediterranean climate
Summer temperatures often in excess of 30C
Mild winters
Low rainfall
2
What are the two main areas of terrain in Southern France?
The foothills of the surrounding mountains
The coastal plains
3
Describe vineyards in the foothills of Southern France
Noticeably cooler, less fertile, better drained
4
What is an additional climatic problem in Southern France?
Strong winds
5
Describe the winds of Southern France
Cool winds blow from the north
The mistral blows down the Rhone
The tramontane blows through the gap between the Pyrenees and the Massif Central
6
What is the biggest grape growing challenge in Southern France?
Drought
7
Despite frequent drought conditions, Southern France can occasionally experience...
Summer floods
8
...varieties account for the majority of Southern France's plantings
Black
9
What ind of varieties are used in Southern France?
Local and international
10
What are the two most important local grape varieties in Southern France?
Grenache and Syrah
11
Where are Syrah and Grenache respectively best suited within Southern France?
Syrah: The cooler sites
Grenache: The warmer, drier sites
12
What is Southern France's third most grown grape variety?
Carignan
13
Describe Carignan in Southern France
High tannin
High acidity
Deep colour
Can lack fruit/finesse
14
In what circumstance can Carignan produce quality wines?
Old vine Carignan in poor soils
15
Where does Carignan's historical popularity in Southern France stem from?
Its ability to produce very high yields
16
What has counteracted Carignan's ability to produce massive yields?
Significantly reduced plantings
17
Which grape is permitted by all AC regulations in Southern France?
Carignan
18
What is the role of Cinsault in Southern France?
It's used in Rose production or to add red fruit flavours to red blends
19
Which grape adds richness, colour and complexity to blends in Southern France?
Mourvèdre
20
Which grapes have a big role in the production of IGP wines in Southern France?
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
21
Describe contemporary winemaking in Southern France
Most wines now benefit from modern equipment, improved cellar hygiene, temperature control, oxygen management and judicious use of new and old oak
22
Which additional winemaking practice is practiced by some producers in Southern France
Semi-carbonic maceration
23
What is the chief aim of semi-carbonic maceration in Southern France?
To soften the tannins in Carignan
24
What are the two most widely planted white varieties in Southern France?
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc
25
What is the third most significant white grape in Southern France?
Viognier
26
What are the most widely planted local varieties in Southern France?
Muscat and Grenache Blanc
27
What is Muscat used for in Southern France?
Production of sweet fortified wines
Dry wines with aromatic, grapey aromas
28
Describe the profile of Grenache Blanc in Southern France
Dry wines
Soft, peachy fruitiness
Full body
Low acidity
Tend to oxidise easily
29
Name five additional local varieties in Southern France and the locales in which they are most prized
Picpoul; Pinet
Mauzac; Limoux
Maccabeu; Rousillon
Rolle; Provence
Clairette; Languedoc and Provence
30
