Centre-Loire > C么tes du Forez
C么tes du Forez
Located in the Centre-Loire, C么tes du Forez is the southernmost of all the Loire Valley vineyards. The distinctive combination of granite soil, moderate continental climate and vineyard aspect make it an area perfectly suited to grow Gamay.
Vineyard
Location: The appellation is on a thin strip of land, wedged between rich sedimentary soil of the Loire Valley and the Monts du Forez, where the altitude quickly becomes a limiting factor for growth. The region runs north to south and includes communes: Arthun, Bo毛n su Lignon, Bussy-Albieux, Champdieu, Ecotay l鈥橭lme, Leigneux, L茅zigneux, Marcilly le Ch芒tel, Marcoux, Moingt-Montbrisson, Pralong, Saint-Germain Laval, Saint-Georges Haute Ville, Saint-Sixte, Saint-Thomas la Garde, Sainte Agthe le Bouteresse, and Trelins. The vineyards at the foot of the hills open to the east.
Surface Area:
- 147 hectares / 363 acres
Soil: Forez subsoil is Granite, which eroded into coarse sand at the bottom of the slopes. The soils drain well and warm up quickly.
Climate: The climate is influenced by the Massif Central, but temperatures remain moderate. An early ripening grape, Gamay matures well here, even though it is sensitive to frost. The vineyards face east and get good sun. They also benefit from the foehn winds in the autumn, which aid ripening. The altitude varies from 200-350 meters (656-1,148 feet).
Wine
Annual Production:
- 7,000 hl / 184,920 gallons
Yield:
- 55 hl/ha
Grape Variety:
- Gamay
Growing/Production Practices: Minimum planting density 4,000 vines/hectare with short gobelet or simple or double cord pruning used.
Tasting Notes
Red
- Appearance: Intense garnet or ruby red
- Nose: Ripe red and black berries, some wines express minerality and gunflint notes
- Flavors: Medium-bodied and juicy with dark fruit notes and soft tannins
Ros茅
- Appearance: Pale salmon pink
- Nose: Fresh aromas of strawberries and red fruits
- Flavors: Light-bodied and lively; some wines are made off-dry
Food Pairings
- Grilled Swordfish with Salsa Verde
- Tandoori Chicken
- Spiced Asian-spiced Flank Steak
