
What adds grape to the wine?
- Carignan gives the wine its traditional appearance and color.
- Grenache takes care of the bouquet.
- Syrah and Mourvèrdre make the aroma
- Cinsault for suppleness
And it went better and better ...
As early as 1945, the Saint Chinian Appellation was qualified as VDQS (Vin delimité qualité Superieur). But after many improvements, she became a member of the Great French Wines family in 1982 and classified as AOC for red wine and rosé, followed by white wine in 2005. Also the AOC of Saint-Chinian-Berlou and Saint-Chinian Roquebrun were added.
To be an AOC Saint Chinian, the wine must meet a number of conditions.
- The Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah grape varieties can only be used for red wine. These vines must be at least three years old.
- For the white wine, the main ingredients are Grenache blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne and Vermentino. The addition of none of these varieties may exceed 70%. The addition of the Grenache blanc is mandatory and must be at least 30%. The following species may be added: Bourboulenc, Carignan blanc, Clairette and Macabeu.
- At least 3300 canes must be planted per hectare and the yield may not exceed 50 hectoliters per hectare.
The red wine obtained from this composition has a deep ruby color, is full, without hardness, is fleshy and has a delicate, fragrant taste. The best temperature for storing the AOC Saint Chinian is a constant between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius. From the 2nd or 3rd year, the aroma and bouquet of the wine in the bottle has been fully developed. She is drunk at a temperature of around 17 degrees Celsius
The white wines of Saint Chinian have a beautiful light yellow color and generally taste fruity and floral with fine acids, subtle wood tones and a hint of various spices. Some wines have an almond-like finish.
Extensive information about the AOC Saint Chinian: www.wikiwand.com/Saint-chinian