So often it takes something out of the ordinary to elevate a wine region’s reputation of quality to the next level. It might be the cold sea currents around Chile and South Africa, or the fog that rolls into the vineyards north of San Fran Bay. The Rhône Valley has one that other regions don’t – the Mistral wind.
Wind is one of many environmental factors that will have an influence on grape growing for wine in any vineyard. But the reliability of the Mistral is what makes its influence unique only to the wines of Cotes du Rhône.
When high and low pressures meet either side of France it creates a strong wind that pushes down from the north of the country and out into the Mediterranean Sea. It brings with it a cooler temperature that isn’t welcomed by tourists, but the vines love it, and here’s why.
Healthy Grapes
Most importantly, the Mistral is the nemesis of insects, pests and rot. Moths in particular can take a shine to the fruit here, but their lack of bulk is no match for the wind and moisture. This is great news for organic producers, or any producers that want to convert, as it’s a very natural way of dealing with problems that often only chemical products can cope with. And not only that, but it’s free of charge! So there’s extra value in your glass when all’s said and done.
More Wind, More Sun
The predictability of the Mistral’s influence on the weather is also of great advantage to Cotes du Rhône grape growers. It will blow away cloud cover increasing the sunlight hours and the grape’s chances of a consistent, steady ripening season. It can also normalise the temperature so while the grapes get extra sunlight, the reduction in temperature allows the grapes to retain their acidity which is essential to balance the rich, broad fruit that comes naturally in the Rhone.
Silver Lining
There must be a drawback to the fierce wind that whistles through the vines at sometimes near hurricane force, and indeed there is when it descends on the vineyards during spring and snaps off new shoots. However, the philosophical growers’ perspective that resulting lower yields produce better quality wine serves as a clear conclusion that they wouldn’t have it any other way.
The balance between freshness and rich, ripe fruit is the trademark approachable style of Cotes du Rhône wines. Browse our range of Cotes Du Rhone wines.
