Ariège

Styles

Principal grape varieties

Terroir

• The Plantaurel massif is a Jurassic limestone range of moderate elevation extending in a narrow east–west band across the full width of the department.
• This massif forms a cuesta relief, with limestone cliffs on its upper portion and a gentler marly base.
• To the north of the Plantaurel, the Ariège river has deposited ancient alluvial terraces forming a highly cultivated plain, bordered by Tertiary clay-limestone molasse hills crossed to the west by the Lèze and the Arize.
• The Ariège vineyard is planted mainly on the Tertiary clay-limestone plains and hillsides, constrained by altitude and reaching no higher than 500 metres.
• The sub-Mediterranean climate is characterised by mild winters and hot, dry summers, with a mean annual rainfall of 800 millimetres peaking in spring, and a continental influence that increases with altitude.

Facts drawn from the specification's terroir-link section by automatic interpretation — see the source.

Dénominations géographiques complémentaires

• Ariège Coteaux de la Lèze PGI
• Ariège Coteaux du Plantaurel PGI

All appellations in France

Sources

• Product specification (BO Agri, PDF)
• Official INAO text (show_texte)
• INAO product entry
• Official trade body site — Confédération des Vins IGP de France