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The age of the oldest legally recognized wine region in France, also known as an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée). While it is often stated that Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the first, there were actually five other regions pronounced as AOCs on the same day (May 15, 1936)–Arbois, Tavel, Cognac, Cassis, Monbazillac.

What is the cépage?

A. the building where red wines are stored in barrel, usually for two years or more

B. the variety or varieties of grapes used to make a wine

C. the time after settling when wine is moved wine from barrel to barrel

D. the process by which nutrients in soil are absorbed by the vine

The French word cépage refers to the variety or varieties of grapes used to make a wine. For example, the cépage of most wines from the Left Bank of Bordeaux is cabernet sauvignon and merlot, possibly with cabernet franc and petit

“When I first started, there weren’t really any Black wine professionals—spotting one was like seeing a unicorn. When you see someone who looks like you, engaging in something that you never thought was for you, it’s a game changer.”

—André Hueston Mack, sommelier, author and winemaker Maison Noir Wines

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