Palette

France · AOC · Provence-Corsica

Styles

Natural factors

Vineyard set in a wooded amphitheatre drained by the Arc, sheltered to the north by the Barres de Langesse, du Grand Cabri, and the Cengle
Stony clay-limestone soils over Lutetian tertiary lacustrine limestones (Langesse and Montaiguet formations)
Geological formations designated by geologists under the 'Palette' horizon, which gives the appellation its name
Average annual sunshine of 3,000 hours, average rainfall of 650 mm/year, Mediterranean climate sheltered from cold northerly winds (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)
Sea breezes from the Étang de Berre channelled up the Arc valley temper summer heat and maintain nocturnal humidity

Human factors

King René (Duke of Anjou, Count of Provence) introduced the 'Panse' and Muscat grape varieties into Provence; both remain present in the territory today
The AOC Palette (1948) is distinguished by a blend of classic Mediterranean varieties and ancient ones such as brun fourcat and panse du Roy René (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)

Product characteristics

Reds: deep colour, aromas of leather and cocoa, generous tannins; ageing potential of 10 years or more, ideal with game and Provençal daubes
Whites: floral, balsamic, and pine-nut aromas; a 'remarkable' ageing potential that is rare for a wine from a southern appellation

Terroir / wine link

The sheltered amphitheatre, shallow clay-limestone soils, and hillside slopes together create ripening conditions favourable to all the grape varieties grown

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