The terroir of Laudun distinguishes Pelaquie from other southern Rhone appellations. The wines from this side of the river typically have higher acidity, with soils made lighter by sand mixed with clay and limestone. The sandy soils and cooler microclimate are also extremely important for the cultivation of Syrah and Viognier, which produce their finest wines in the cooler regions of the northern Rhone, 50-70 miles to the north.