AOC Tavel

Appellation area

These are situated in commune of Tavel, on the right bank of the Rhône, in the French Department of Gard.

Geology

Three geological formations of light filtering sandstone, fluvial sand and shingle; chalky gravel and red clay, red clay and quartzite shingle.

Climate

Typically Mediterranean with low rainfall, with an average of 2,700 hours of sunshine per year with the Mistral as the prevailing wind.

Grapes

Grenache, maximum of 15% Cinsault, Clairette white and Rosé, and 10% maximum of Picpoul, Calitor, Bourboulenc, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Carignan.

Vinification

Cold maceration of between 12 and 24 hours. The free running wine and the pressed juice are blended. Alcoholic fermentation at between 18° and 20°, takes place over 8 to 10 days. Malolactic fermentation is not automatic and depends on the nature of the wine required.

Key figures

938 ha

Average yield

42 hl/ha

Average production

39,082 hl

Source: Inter Rhône