Corbières is one of the largest wine appellation in France. To distinguish the wines, Corbières is divided into 11 terroirs
Geology of Corbieres
Set between the mutable Pyrenees and the ancient Massif Central, Corbières has had a very complex geological history, which today explains the great diversity of soils in the region (schist, limestone, sandstone and marl). This diversity is reflected in the eleven terroirs spread over the appellation.
Climate of Corbieres
The Mediterranean predominates, as can be seen in the typical vegetation of the garrigue, although the more westerly terroirs are also affected by oceanic influences.
Grape Varieties found in Corbieres
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Cinsault are used for the red and rosé wines. Grenache blanc, Bourboulenc, Maccabeu, Marsanne and Roussanne are used for the white wines of the Corbieres
Vinification within Corbieres
Corbieres Red wines - traditional fermentation or vinification of whole grapes. Increasingly, red wines are being matured in oak. Research and trials are being carried out by the Syndicate of AOC Corbières into this.
Corbieres Rosé wines - obtained by bleeding
Corbieres White wines - Traditional techniques, maceration on the skins (some vinfication in casks).