Hard limestone  Chateau de Lancyre AOC Coteaux du Languedoc Pic Saint Loup

Hard limestone

A soil type that is easily recognisable, it is often home to typical Mediterranean plant life.

Hard limestone undergoes weathering due to climate conditions (rain and heat) and plants, thereby forming decalcified clay which has high iron oxide content and creates water reserves for dry periods.
Hard limestone soils are not conducive to deep root growth and careful soil management prior to planting is therefore essential.
Significant limestone coverage on soils promotes increased radiation from the sun, keeping temperatures higher at nightfall. This phenomenon, coupled with high temperature variation during summer nights, retains dampness in the soil.