07【Southeast France】Provence

Provence

• Location: Southeast France, near the Mediterranean.

• Area: The wine region extends approximately 150 miles (240 kilometers) from east to west and includes 9 AOC designated areas, including Côtes de Provence, Bandol, Cassis, and Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence.

• Main Grape Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault (mainly used for rosé wine).

• Famous Wine: Côtes de Provence Rosé.

France is the birthplace of the world's wine culture, and nestled under the brilliant sunshine of southern France, Provence is an indispensable stroke on the canvas of French wine. This enchanting land produces unique grape wines thanks to its distinct natural scenery and excellent winemaking techniques, especially renowned for its Rosé wines, celebrated worldwide.

Geographical Location

Alsace is located in northeastern France, bordering Germany and Switzerland, situated between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River. The region stretches from the northern Bas-Rhin to the southern Haut-Rhin, with a total length of over 100 kilometers. The Vosges provides a significant rain shadow effect, which allows Alsace to have a dry and sunny climate, very suitable for grape growing. The vineyards in the region are mainly distributed on the southeast-facing slopes, enjoying good sunlight, covering an area of about 15,600 hectares, making it one of France's major white wine regions.

Environmental Characteristics

Provence has a typical Mediterranean climate, occasionally experiencing heavy rains and strong winds (such as Le Mistral), helping to maintain the health of the vineyards:

• Climate: Provence benefits from a typical Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine and an average of 3000 hours of sunshine per year. The dry summers are accompanied by cool nights, and the winter brings little rain, keeping the soil moist but not overly soggy, providing ideal conditions for grape growth.

• Soil: This land exhibits stunning diversity. For example, different types of soils, such as limestone, clay, shale, and sand, form rich microclimates, allowing different regions to produce wines of various styles, showcasing the region's unique charm.

• Production Data: The vineyards of Provence cover a total area of about 50,000 hectares, producing approximately 170 million bottles of wine each year, 75% of which are Rosé wines, with the remainder being red and white wines.

Main Grape Varieties:

The Rosé wine of Provence is the soul of this land, and there are also grapes planted for blending into red and white wines:

1. Grenache

• Description: Grenache is one of the most important grape varieties in Provence, originally from Spain, and it adapts well to dry and hot climates, showing strong resistance to winds and droughts.

• Tasting Notes: Aromas of red fruits like strawberries and raspberries, with a rich structure, accompanied by spices and meaty flavors. As it ages, it showcases deeper layers of spices and smoky notes.

  

2. Mourvèdre

• Description: Mourvèdre originates from Spain and prefers warm coastal regions, particularly important in the Bandol area of Provence. It is often used in high-end red wine blends but can also produce wines with long aging potential when vinified alone.

• Tasting Notes: Aromas of violet, blackberry, and spices, with a rich mouthfeel and smooth tannins. As it ages, complex flavors of meat, pepper, and cinnamon can be revealed.

  

3. Tibouren

• Description: Tibouren is a native variety in Provence, grown almost exclusively in this region, and is an important component in the production of rosé wines, known for its elegance and aromatic qualities.

• Tasting Notes: Delicate and elegant with floral aromas and ripe fruits like peaches and apricots, often adding sophistication and complexity to rosé wines.

4. Cinsault

• Description: Cinsault is a heat-resistant variety, primarily used for producing rosé wines but can also be found in light red wines. Often blended with Grenache and Syrah/Shiraz to enhance the fruitiness and freshness of rosé wines.

• Tasting Notes: Subtle aromas of red fruits like strawberries and raspberries along with floral notes, with a soft mouthfeel and balanced acidity.

  

5. Vermentino/Rolle

• Description: Vermentino/Rolle is a white grape variety that dominates white wine production in Provence, very well adapted to the local dry climate and diverse soils. It is primarily used for producing refreshing and aromatic white wines, and can also be blended to enhance complexity.

• Tasting Notes: Exhibits aromas of citrus, pear, almond, and white flowers, with a fresh and balanced acidity, sometimes with a hint of salinity or minerality.