Red wines, AOP PIERREVERT
In the mild, sunny climate of the south-east of France, Pierrevert red wine is produced in the abundant vineyards of Provence at the foot of the Luberon massif. In this wild region, the vines benefit from a Mediterranean climate, perfect for their growth. The excellence of their aromas emanates from a unique topography ranging from chalky soils, shale, phylites, sandstone and marl to alluvial soils. Thanks to this ideal climate, these prodigious lands and the simple skill of the winemakers, Pierrevert wines are guaranteed by the French AOC label and by the European AOP label. Grenache noir and Syrah are predominant among the wide range of grape varieties that make up this relatively dry red wine.
Located in the Languedoc and Roussillon regions, it is said that pilgrims imported the Grenache noir grape variety on their return from Santiago de Compostela in the Middle Ages. This type of grape is naturally vigorous and fertile. Tenacious in periods of drought, Grenache noir is still susceptible to dead arm disease and is often weakened by shatter during the flowering period from 5 to 15 June. This unique grape variety produces wines that are rich in alcohol and characterised by low acidity.
Syrah, on the other hand, is an ancient grape variety, today considered to be one of the varieties most emblematic of the north of the Côtes du Rhône. In this respect, there is an aura of mystery hanging over the origin of this grape variety that ampelographers have yet to get to the bottom of. There are many synonyms for Syrah, such as Marsanne, Plant de la Biaun or Damas noir du Puy de Dôme. It is popular for its deep colour and the wonderful tannic balance that it lends to wines.
RED WINES, IGP ALPES-DE-HAUTE-PROVENCE
Red wines with the Identification Géographique Protégée indication are known for their simplicity and fullness. They are distinguished by their dense, deep garnet colour with purplish hues. On the palate, they reflect the beautiful aromatic, fruity presence first sensed in the nose. Red fruits, blackcurrants and blackberries encapsulate the full indulgence of this red wine with delicacy. Carignan noir predominates among the range of grape varieties used for these red wines. Overall, the red wines of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence represent a production of 8,435 hectolitres per year.
