Final answer:
The south of France has regions known for producing Vins Doux Naturels (sweet fortified wines) from white grapes, specifically Roussillon with Muscat de Rivesaltes and Maury, and the Rhône Valley with Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two areas in the south of France that are known for producing Vins Doux Naturels (VDN) from white grapes are the regions of Roussillon and the Rhône Valley. Vins Doux Naturels are a type of sweet fortified wine, and while many are made from red grapes, there are notable exceptions made from white grape varieties.
In Roussillon, the wine known as Vin Doux Naturel is produced in several appellations, with white versions primarily coming from Muscat de Rivesaltes and Maury. These wines are typically made from the white grape varieties Muscat à Petits Grains and Muscat of Alexandria. The sunny climate and the geological diversity of the region, ranging from coastal plains to the foothills of the Pyrenees, create ideal conditions for the sweet, aromatic profile of these white VDNs.
Similarly, in the southern part of the Rhône Valley, especially in and around areas like Beaumes-de-Venise, another notable white VDN, Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise, is produced. Here, the terroir characterized by limestone and pebbly soils, combined with the warm Mediterranean climate, contributes to the lush sweetness in the wines.
This region is also highly regarded for its other agricultural products, benefiting from a climate that supports diverse fruit and vegetable cultivation, which is indicative of France's rich agricultural heritage and the interplay of climate, terrain, and traditional practices in shaping agricultural output.