Main features : a vigorous variety that produces a regular and abundant crop. Flowering takes place between June 8 and June 15, and the grapes ripen fairly late, between September 25 and October 25 depending on the area. It requires high temperatures, but is not sensitive to drought or wind. It is particularly suited to warm, dry hillside soils.
œnological potential : grown on soils that are not particularly fertile and on hillsides, this variety produces well-structured, tannic wines with good colour. Winemaking by carbonic maceration enables the maximum number of aromas to be extracted.
Use : Côtes du Rhône red and rosé (maximum 30% of local grape varieties), Côtes du Rhône Villages red (maximum 20% of local grape varieties). Costières de Nîmes, Coteaux du Tricastin, Côtes du Luberon, Côtes du Ventoux.
Main features : a fairly vigorous variety that produces a regular and abundant crop which ripens during the first half of September. It requires high temperatures, and is resistant to drought and wind. The yield must be correctly managed.
œnological potential : medium colour, elegant and fruity aromas, low acidity and supple tannins, Cinsault black is particularly suitable for rosé wines made by the bleeding method, and primeur wines made to be drunk young.
Use : Tavel (minimum 15% of local grape varieties), Châteauneuf - du - Pape red (approximately 10% of local grape varieties), Côtes du Rhône Villages red and rosés (maximum 20% of local grape varieties), Côtes du Rhône red and rosés (maximum 30% of local grape varieties). Costières de Nîmes, Coteaux du Tricastin, Côtes du Luberon, Côtes du Ventoux.
Formerly known as Moustardier in the old vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Tavel, this variety is not extensively cultivated these days. In assembly, it contributes fruity and spicy aspects.
Used in the AC Côtes du Rhône (until 10%), Marselan produces a complex wine, very colored, perfumed, and so rich in harmonious tannics. It’s a kind of grape variety which can be mixed because it’s got a tannic and polyphenoly’s potential.
Used in Châteauneuf du Pape wines, in assembly, Muscardin black contributes a floral bouquet and pleasant freshness.
The interesting and unusual aromas of these varieties are used in some wines to soften the Grenache and contribute finesse and structure.
Imparting a bouquet of flowers and fruit and an elegant, delicate structure with little tannin, these varieties are cultivated in the Gard region, and occasionally in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Terret black : This is now only occasionally found in Tavel and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It produces light wines with little colour and a pleasant bouquet.
Grenache grey and Clairette pink : These varieties are mainly used for the production of rosé.
Uni blanc : Côtes du Luberon, Côtes du Ventoux.
Vermentillo / Rolle : Costières de Nîmes, Côtes du Luberon.
Maccabeo : Costières de Nîmes.
