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'''Savoie''' (/sa.vwa/), also known as Vin de Savoie, is a wine region in eastern France situated in the foothills of the Alps near the borders with Switzerland and Italy. Viticulture in this area is shaped by a combination of mountain influences, varied altitudes, and complex geology, producing wines that are often associated with freshness and marked acidity<ref>Johnson & Robinson, ''The World Atlas of Wine'', 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.</ref>. While modest in overall production, Savoie is notable for its diversity of grape varieties and appellations, many of which are rooted in long-standing local traditions<ref>Vitisphere, "Vins de Savoie: Histoire et Terroir", vitisphere.com.</ref>.
'''Savoie''' (/sa.vwa/), also known as Vin de Savoie, is a [[wine region]] in eastern [[France]] situated in the foothills of the Alps near the borders with [[Switzerland]] and [[Italy]]. [[Viticulture]] in this area is shaped by a combination of mountain influences, varied altitudes, and complex geology, producing wines that are often associated with freshness and marked acidity<ref>Johnson & Robinson, ''The World Atlas of Wine'', 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.</ref>. While modest in overall production, Savoie is notable for its diversity of grape varieties and appellations, many of which are rooted in long-standing local traditions<ref>Vitisphere, "Vins de Savoie: Histoire et Terroir", vitisphere.com.</ref>.


== Background ==
== Background ==

Latest revision as of 11:45, 12 August 2025

Savoie (/sa.vwa/), also known as Vin de Savoie, is a wine region in eastern France situated in the foothills of the Alps near the borders with Switzerland and Italy. Viticulture in this area is shaped by a combination of mountain influences, varied altitudes, and complex geology, producing wines that are often associated with freshness and marked acidity[1]. While modest in overall production, Savoie is notable for its diversity of grape varieties and appellations, many of which are rooted in long-standing local traditions[2].

Background

The history of winegrowing in Savoie dates back to Roman times, with viticulture continuing through the Middle Ages under the influence of monasteries and local trade networks[3]. Its geographic position along historic Alpine routes fostered a tradition of cultivating grape varieties adapted to cool climates and steep slopes[4]. The modern appellation structure for the region was established in the 1970s, with Vin de Savoie granted Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 1973[5].

Characteristics

Savoie’s vineyards are generally planted at altitudes between 250 and 600 metres, often on slopes benefiting from good sun exposure and protection from harsh Alpine weather[6]. The soils are varied, including limestone scree, glacial moraines, and alluvial deposits, contributing to a diversity of wine styles[7]. The climate is continental with mountain influences, leading to cool winters, warm summers, and significant diurnal temperature variation, which helps preserve acidity.

Use in winemaking

The region is known primarily for its white wines, which account for the majority of production, though red, rosé, and sparkling wines are also made[8]. Local grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse, and Mondeuse Noire are widely grown, alongside some international varieties. Vinification methods often emphasise freshness and aromatic expression, with many wines intended for early consumption, though certain cuvées are capable of ageing.

See also

References

  1. Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  2. Vitisphere, "Vins de Savoie: Histoire et Terroir", vitisphere.com.
  3. Vitisphere, "Vins de Savoie: Histoire et Terroir", vitisphere.com.
  4. Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  5. INAO, "Vins de Savoie – Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée", inao.gouv.fr.
  6. Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  7. Kramer, Making Sense of Wine, HarperCollins, 2004, ISBN 978-0060094928.
  8. Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.