Malepère

France · AOC · Languedoc-Roussillon

Styles

Natural factors

Soils derived from molasse: ranging from hard calcareous sandstone to soft clays; the vineyard also extends onto drained clay-gravel terraces.
Rounded hillocks known as 'Pech' (lenses of resistant puddingstone or sandstone that withstand erosion) scattered in arcs around the massif.
A transitional Mediterranean/oceanic climate; vegetation combines holm oak (Mediterranean) and downy oak (sub-Mediterranean). (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)
The vineyard is limited to 350 m elevation on south-facing slopes and 300 m on north-facing slopes; molasse soils ensure a continuous water supply to the vines.

Human factors

A qualitative shift was undertaken in the 1960s under the impetus of the University of Toulouse, following the post-phylloxera orientation toward blending wines. (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)
Atlantic varieties (Merlot, Cabernets) on the cooler substrates of mid-slope positions; Mediterranean varieties (Grenache, Cinsaut) on the drier upper slopes.

Product characteristics

Vivid ruby-red: aromas of red berries evolving toward dark fruits, with notes of truffle, spice, and leather; a broad attack with freshness.
Dry rosé: pale, bright appearance, intense fruity nose (white fruits), a fresh and complex attack, and an intense finish.

Terroir / wine link

Atlantic and Mediterranean varieties combined within a Mediterranean climate governed by an oceanic water regime, expressing the complexity and originality of the wines.

Facts drawn from the cahier's terroir-link section (Lien au terroir) by automatic interpretation — see the source.