RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

A white grape variety, the Romorantin is the result of a cross between the white Gouais and Pinot noir, in the same way as Chardonnay. This robust variety from Sologne, very adapted to a siliceous soil, develops average-to-large bunches and small grapes, but it is fairly sensitive to grey rot. It is often qualified as a “red disguised as a white” because of the tannins in its skin and because it is very adapted to long macerating, like a red wine. It has a roundness in the mouth, it can infrequently be harvested late, and it has aromas of white flowers, honey, acacia, plums, apricots or peaches. The wine that it produces ages very well. It is only authorised under the Cour-Cheverny AOC label, where it reigns as the sole sovereign. Moreover, it is grown on about ten hectares outside the AOC. 
It was introduced by Francis I in 1519 in the Loir-et-Cher, who transplanted 60,000 feet from Burgundy (or 80,000 according to sources) to Romorantin, near his mother’s castle, Louise de Savoie. 

Not widespread in France, this variety is only authorised by one AOC (58 hectares of vineyards, making it one of the smallest designations in France). Its organoleptic characteristics are a bit unclassifiable, so it has been marginalised in times of intrusive oenology.

(Source: Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity – Ark of Taste) https://www.fondazioneslowfood.com/en/ark-of-taste-slow-food/?fwp_arca_settore=wines-and-grape-varietals-en)

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