Vineyards: these are located throughout the commune of Rochegude in the South of the French Department of the Drôme.
Soil types: red clay; light permeable sandstone with siliceous areas.
Climate: typical Mediterranean affected by the Mistral.
Background: enjoyed as early as Roman times (the wine is referred to in a decree issued by the Emperor Domitian), the Rochegude vineyards have always been reputed for producing fine wines. In the 18th Century, the Marquis of Acqueria introduced a new impetus into the vineyards and improved on quality. This constant striving for quality resulted in Rochegude being awarded the Côtes du Rhône Villages Rochegude label in 1967.
Area under cultivation*: 219 hectares, yearly production: 7434 hl; basic yield: 34 hl/hectare.
* Source: harvest statement 2009.
Grape variety mix: for the reds, Grenache 50% minimum, Syrah and / or Mourvèdre 20% minimum, other grape varieties of the Appellation tolerated 20% maximum.
For the rosé, Grenache 50% minimum, Syrah and / or Mourvèdre 20% minimum, other grape varieties tolerated 20% maximum, white grape varieties 20% maximum (Grenache, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, Bourboulenc and Viognier).
For the whites, Grenache white, Clairette white, Marsanne white, Roussanne white, Bourboulenc white, Viognier white, other white grape varieties tolerated 20% maximum.
Minimum alcoholic strength: for the red 12.5%, for the rosé and whites 12.
