Comparative Physico-Geographical Considerations Referring to Cotnari Vineyard and Côte de Beaune Vineyard

Abstract

With a similar geographical position to Cotnari Vineyard, nearby the 47th parallel, Northern latitude, the Côte de Beaune Vineyard from Bourgogne (France) share also litho-pedo-geomorphological and climatic characteristics wuth Cotnari Vineyard in Northeast Romania. Situated at the contact between Langres Plateau and Saône Plain, Côte de Beaune Vineyard has a limestone substrate where rendzinas are developing (among other types of soil). Moreover, the geomorphologic configuration of Côte de Beaune Vineyard is given by the presence of Eastern exposition coasts of Langres Plateau. From a climatic point of view, the French vineyard is characterized by a sheltered microclimate in relation to Atlantic influences and by the existence of an open corridor to the South (Saône corridor), that gives to the climate the sub-Mediterranean shades. The föehn effect is felt here in the form of lower rainfall and the presence of warmer air. However, despite all these similarities, in terms of products, Côte de Beaune Vineyard is known as a dry white wines producing vineyard, while Cotnari Vineyard is individualized internationally by the uniqueness of its sweet wines.
Keywords: limestone substrate, rendzinas, open corridor, föehn phenomenon,