Vacqueyras
Styles
Principal grape varieties
BourboulencClairette (Clairette Blanche)Grenache Blanc (Garnacha Blanca)MarsanneRoussanneViognierGrenache (Garnacha Tinta)Mourvèdre (Monastrell)Syrah
Accessory grape varieties
Brun ArgentéCarignanCinsautClairette RoseCounoiseGrenache Gris (Garnacha Roja)MuscardinPiquepoul NoirTerret Noir
Terroir
Natural factors
- Terroir encompassing 2 communes (Vacqueyras and Sarrians), in the Vaucluse département, on the left bank of the Ouvèze
- Complex geological bedrock: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous substrates, surrounded by Oligocene and Miocene formations
- The 'Garrigues' terrace: clay-limestone soils with a red clay matrix and rounded pebbles, of marine and lacustrine origin (Ouvèze)
- Safres du Comtat Venaissin (Tertiary) beneath Vacqueyras: fine sandstones and limestones alternating with marls
- The Mistral blows more than 100 days per year; nicknamed 'mango-fango' (mud-eater), it protects the vines from fungal diseases (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)
Human factors
- Vineyards documented from the 15th century: in 1448, a record of taxes on grapes and wine; in 1541, the right to sell one's 'cru' wine without paying any tax (via Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0)
Product characteristics
- Reds: aromas of red and black fruits with overripe notes, evolving toward spice and animal characters (leather, game)
- Reds: generous, full, well-structured palate with non-aggressive tannins; powerful, round, and elegant wines with ageing potential
Terroir / wine link
- The Mistral concentrates the berries and protects against fungal diseases; the Dentelles de Montmirail temper the Mediterranean climate
Facts drawn from the cahier's terroir-link section (Lien au terroir) by automatic interpretation — see the source.
Sources
- Product specification (BO Agri, PDF) — approved 14 novembre 2011, JORF 17 novembre 2011
- Official INAO text (show_texte)
- INAO product entry
- Official trade body site — Inter Rhône