Technically speaking, Tournon is on the left bank of the Rhone, home to the well-respected St. Joseph appellation. Like all appellations in the Northern Rhone Valley, there are few varieties (cepages) which are permitted in the wines produced here: Syrah, Marsanne and Roussane. Does that mean that if I wanted to grow grapes in my garden and make wine to sell at the farmers market, I would only be allowed to grow these 3 grapes? No, not at all. I could make any wine from any grapes/fruit/flower petals/bark that I wanted under the terms that it was labeled correctly.
Brief half-ass lesson of the day: To be labeled under St. Joseph A.O.C. ( or any appellation), First, I would have to verify that my land was located within the boundaries of the St. Joseph A.O.C. and this means a lot of research and staring at topographical maps. (graduating from 8th grade earth science helps in this process). Then, I would have to go through a lot of red tape, which means learning the rules and regulations as far as viticultural (vineyard) and vinicultural (winery) practices go. A few more steps, beaucoup de bucks spent, sweat, cursing and blisters, repeat, and voila: your name here wine, St. Joseph A.O.C. In other words, glory. .
……at least that is the plan for me and Julien, my betrothed. Not only glory, but in addition, a greater sense of accomplishment, humility, and a living wage. I mention this because my fiance is an aspiring winemaker who owns a small vineyard in St. Joseph, and I imagine that in a few years, I will have a better idea of the entire process and will have to come back and re-edit today’s post. Until then, more posts to come, wine to be made, and milestones to be celebrated. Wish us luck!