The Roussillon Wine Region

The Roussillon wine region is one of the less discussed regions in France, but has a distinct beauty, history, and quality which makes it world-class.

Located in the southwest of France, Roussillon is situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees mountain range. This range is extensive within the region, and is characterized by sub-areas. To the north are the Corbières mountains. Towards the west is Mount Canigou. To the south are the Albères mountains. There are three rivers, the Agly River, the Têt River, and the Tech River, located in the plains below the mountains. The climate varies dependent upon location within the region, but most areas are characterized by warm temperatures and high levels of sunlight.  

There are 14 appellations within Roussillon. For dry wines, these include Côtes-du-roussillon, Côtes-du-roussillon Les Aspres, Côtes-du-roussillon villages (CRV), CRV Caramany, CRV Lesquerde, CRV Latour de France, CRV Tautavel, Maury sec, Collioure. For fortified sweet wines, called "vins doux naturels" in french, there are: Muscat de Rivesaltes, Rivesaltes, Maury, Banyuls and Banyuls Grand Cru. 

The total area under vine in Roussillon includes more than 20,000 hectares, making it an extensive area of wine production. The maximum yield for vineyards regulated within the region is 50 hectolitres per hectare for red and rosé wines, while for white wines the yield is limited to 60 hectolitres. The average yield for vineyards in the region overall is 45 hectolitres per hectare. 

The primary red varietal in the region are grenache noir, carignan, mourvèdre, syrah, cinsault, and lladoner pelut. The primary white varietals are grenache blanc, macabeu, malvoisie du roussillon, muscat à petits grains, muscat d’Alexandrie, marsanne, roussane, and vermentino. Grenache gris is also a popular varietal. 





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