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Terrasses Du Larzac

The Background

Wine production started with the Romans, but took off seriously under the influence of the Benedictine abbeys. More recently 3 generations of wine producers have made a huge contribution to the quality revolution in the Languedoc and subsequently certain smaller areas have been recognised as worthy of sub appellation names to reflect the higher quality and individuality of the wines produced within. In 2004 the Terrasses du Larzac were recognized as a separate denomination of the AOC Coteaux du Languedoc. This recognition involved imposing land parcel boundaries, as well as specific production rules so as to guarantee top quality and reflect the terroir’s unique qualities.

 

Terrasses Du Larzac Terroirs

Type of soil: Geologically very varied, stony clay and sandy soil, red soil ‘ruffes’ in horizontal layers - muddy limestone dominated by high Jurassic limestone cliffs. Along the Hérault : stony cryoclastic limestone deposits with pebble covered terraces rising above the river banks.

Climate: The zone’s climate has wide temperature variations but its distance from the sea and proximity to the Causse means it enjoys relatively cool summer nights. These result in the grapes maturing slowly and steadily, which is beneficial to their colour, whilst also encouraging the wines’ aromatic qualities and fresh characteristics. The average altitude is between 80 and 150 metres rising to a maximum of 400m in the commune of Saint Privat.

 

Production Rules

The Coteaux du Languedoc-Terrasses du Larzac appellation contrôlée has very strict production rules. Grapes may only come from land parcels identified by the producers and approved by the INAO.

 

Decree of 25 February 2005 Of the 168 Coteaux du Languedoc communes, 32 may produce Terrasses du Larzac wine.

 

Grape varieties: Red wines

 

Principal grape varieties: Syrah, black Grenache and Mourvèdre (60% minimum) ; Syrah, Grenache or Mourvèdre limited individually to 75% and Syrah and /or Mourvèdre 20% minimum, Cinsault (30% maximum) and black Carignan. A blend of at least two varieties is obligatory.

 

Alcohol level: The wines must be produced from fully mature grapes and the alcohol level must be over 12%.

 

Yield: The base yield of Terrasses du Larzac must not exceed 45 hectolitres per hectare.
Age young vines may become productive: Only young vines in their 5th year and over may be used in Coteaux du Languedoc Terrasses du Larzac wines.

 

Planting density: Since 1990 planting density has been fixed at 4000 plants per hectare with a maximum distance between rows of 2.50 metres.

 

Pruning: Short pruning with no more than ten renewal shoots per plant.