Red
Grenache black

Main features : an extremely vigorous and productive variety, but prone to rain damage (during flowering). Although there are variations depending on the area, flowering usually takes place between June 5th to 15th, and the grapes ripen between September 15th and October 10th. Grenache is wind resistant and extremely resistant to drought. Most red wines of southern Côtes du Rhône are Grenache based, as are some fruity rosé wines.

œnological potential : high alcohol potential, low acidity, mellowness, round, fruity with spicy aromas.

Use : Gigondas (main grape varieties, 50% minimum), Côtes du Rhône (40% minimum). Côtes du Rhône Villages (a maximum of 65% of regional grape varieties until December 31st 2004, and a minimum of 50% from 2005).

Syrah

Main features : a variety of great character with abundant vegetation. Although there are variations depending on the area and the year, flowering usually takes place between June 5th and 15th, and the grapes ripen between September 15th and October 10th (8 days before Grenache black in the South). This variety prefers a mild and consistent climate. Syrah is the only red variety used in the northern Côtes du Rhône Crus and, owing to its aromatic richness and deep colour, it is now increasingly used in southern Côtes du Rhône.

œnological potential : vivid in colour, resistant to oxidation, tannic and aromatic (raspberry, blackcurrant, violet, peppers).

Use : Cornas (100%), Côte-Rôtie (80% minimum), Crozes-Hermitage (85% minimum), Hermitage (85% minimum), Saint-Joseph (90%), Gigondas (15% minimum of grape varieties blended or not with Mourvèdre), Côtes du Rhône (main grape variety), Côtes du Rhône Villages (a minimum of 20% of regional grape varieties blended with Cinsault and Mourvèdre).

Mourvèdre

Main features : of average productivity, this variety flowers between June 5 and June 15 and the grapes ripen from the beginning of October. Southern regions are preferable as it requires considerable warmth and light, particularly at the end of its ripening period.
Although sensitive to wind, it requires small but regular amounts of water.

œnological potential : Its tannins are ideal for red wines and the intensity and quality of its aromas increase with age. This variety has antioxidant properties, which have resulted in it being used to prolong the freshness and enrich the aroma of some rosés.

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