Abouriou

Abouriou is a red French wine grape variety that is grown primarily in the Lot-et-Garonne department in the region of South West France. It is also one of the few grape varieties allowed for wine production in the Côtes du Marmandais AOC. The grape has a long history in the region, but its cultivation has been declining in recent years.

History

The origins of Abouriou are not clear, but it is believed to have been grown in the region for several centuries. The grape is named after the town of Abouriou in the Lot-et-Garonne department. The first documented mention of Abouriou dates back to the 19th century.

Viticulture

Abouriou is a late-ripening grape variety that is resistant to many vine diseases, including powdery mildew and downy mildew. However, it is susceptible to botrytis cinerea, a fungal disease that can cause noble rot in grapes. The grape has small, thick-skinned berries that produce deeply colored and tannic wines.

Wine regions

While Abouriou is grown primarily in the Lot-et-Garonne department, it is also found in small amounts in other wine regions of South West France, including the Bergerac and Cahors AOCs. Outside of France, the grape is grown in the California wine region of the United States, where it is known as Early Burgundy.

Wines

Wines made from Abouriou are typically full-bodied and deeply colored, with high levels of tannins. They often have flavors of dark fruit, such as blackberries and plums, as well as notes of spice and earth. These wines are often aged in oak to soften the tannins and add complexity.

Synonyms

Over the years, Abouriou has been known under various synonyms, including Early Burgundy, Gamay Beaujolais, and Gamay du Rhône.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• French wine
• Viticulture
• Wine regions of France