Atlas de la France vinicole - Les vins des Côtes du Rhône 1943

The 1943 original map by L. Larmat, titled "Les vins des Côtes du Rhône", is part of the comprehensive "Atlas de la France Vinicole" series, which meticulously charts France’s most renowned wine regions. Printed by Dorel in Paris, this map focuses on the Côtes du Rhône wine region, one of the oldest and most celebrated viticultural areas in France. Published during the challenging years of World War II, it is a remarkable document that not only provides a wealth of technical detail but also embodies the resilience of French culture and tradition in the face of adversity.

The Côtes du Rhône wine region is divided into two principal parts: the northern (septentrional) and southern (méridional) sections, each with its own unique characteristics and wine styles. Larmat’s map provides a comprehensive overview of this region, illustrating its geography, climate, terroirs, and the wide variety of wines produced.

The northern Côtes du Rhône is dominated by steep vineyards planted on narrow terraces along the Rhône River. This cooler climate produces primarily Syrah-based red wines, known for their elegance, structure, and peppery flavors. Famous appellations like Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, and Cornas are highlighted on the map, all known for their long history and prestigious wines. These wines are often made in smaller quantities compared to their southern counterparts, and their rich flavors and aging potential make them some of the most highly sought-after wines in the world.

The southern Côtes du Rhône, in contrast, has a warmer Mediterranean climate and a more expansive landscape, with large vineyards spread across valleys and plateaus. The southern section is famous for its Grenache-dominated red wines, often blended with Syrah, Mourvèdre, and other grape varieties. Iconic appellations like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Tavel (known for its rosés) are clearly marked, emphasizing the diversity and volume of wine production in the region. The wines from this area tend to be fuller-bodied and more fruit-forward, with the influence of the Mistral wind and varying soil types contributing to the distinct flavors of each appellation.

The map also captures the smaller but still significant Côtes du Rhône Villages appellations, showcasing how different microclimates and soil compositions within the region affect the characteristics of the wines. Larmat’s attention to detail is evident in the precise depiction of the region’s topography, with rivers, valleys, hills, and vineyard boundaries all carefully charted. His work highlights the diversity within the Côtes du Rhône and explains why it produces such a wide range of wine styles.

In addition to its technical value, the map is a fine example of mid-20th-century cartography, with aesthetic elements that reflect the care and craftsmanship of its creation. Soft color tones, clear typography, and detailed engravings give the map an artistic appeal, making it not only a valuable resource for wine professionals but also an attractive piece for collectors and enthusiasts.

This 1943 map serves as a historical snapshot of the Côtes du Rhône wine region during a time when France, and indeed the world, was enduring the hardships of World War II. Despite the wartime difficulties, the French wine industry continued to thrive, and Larmat’s work is a testament to the enduring importance of wine to French culture and identity. The "Les vins des Côtes du Rhône" map, like others in the Larmat series, stands as a symbol of the preservation and celebration of France’s vinous heritage.

Collectors and wine aficionados prize this map today for both its beauty and its utility. It offers an invaluable look at the Côtes du Rhône region as it existed in the early 20th century, showcasing not only the famous appellations that continue to produce world-class wines but also the rich tradition of winemaking that has shaped the region's identity for centuries.

Original Poster

Alcohol - Map - Rhône - France

Côte-rotie, Condrieu, Chateau-Grillet, Hermitage, Crozes Hermitage, Cornas, Saint-Péray

Dorel - Paris

Good condition, original folds