79. Roussillon Wines Explained: Grapes, History and Travel Insights — Wine Educate: Wine Lessons, Travel & WSET Study Prep

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Episode Overview

Welcome back to the Wine Educate Podcast! In this episode, Joanne Close takes us into the wines of the Roussillon, a region often described as "rugged" and one of the sunniest in France. Surrounded on three sides by mountains and on the fourth by the Mediterranean, Roussillon has a unique climate, rich cultural identity, and a fascinating wine history that sets it apart from its neighbor, the Languedoc.

Joanne shares travel tips for visiting the region, explains its dual Catalan and Occitan heritage, and describes how the challenging but rewarding landscape has shaped the vineyards and the wines. From still wines to fortified Vin Doux Naturel, Roussillon offers styles that reflect both tradition and innovation, and Joanne highlights the winemakers who are helping this region find new energy today.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why the Roussillon is one of France's driest and sunniest regions, and how its eight named winds affect viticulture.
How the region's diverse soils and elevations create different opportunities for grape growing.
The importance of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Mourvèdre in red blends, and the key white grapes you'll find here.
The history and current role of Vin Doux Naturel, once a global favorite and still central to Roussillon's identity.
The rise of small producers and the natural wine movement in this region of old vines and inexpensive land.
Why the town of Collioure remains a highlight, from its anchovies to its impressionist art history.

How to Join Us on a Trip

If you are curious about experiencing the South of France firsthand, Joanne and the Wine Educate team are hosting a Zoom info session on Wednesday, October 15th at 12:00 pm Central. Learn more and sign up here: www.wineeducate.com/trips