The mistral are strong, cold winds that affect the wine regions around the Rhone River Valley in southeast France. The word “mistral” comes from an old regional dialect meaning “masterly”, since they blow down from the north approximately 150 days of the year with a strength of around 60 miles an hour. The mistral happens mostly during winter and spring, greatly affecting the vineyards of these renowned wine region by uprooting the vines and preventing the flowers from blooming. However, it helps by preventing fungal diseases from setting on the vines and making summers cooler, which assists in the retention of the grapes’ acidity. Also, after it has passed, it brings clear skies and lots of sunshine to fuel the plants.
In the Rhone Valley, the red grapes Syrah and Grenache occupy most of the vineyard acreage. Red wines of the Rhone are usually very structured, herbaceous and expressive with coarse tannins. As for whites, Viognier, Marsanne and Rousanne are used to create bold blends. Try some of our wineries like Paul Jaboulet or Tardieu Laurent and let the mistral take you straight to the Rhone Valley!
Author: Maytte Rivera
