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We sell gift vouchers - for more details call us on 0115 911 0555 or email us at eann@gauntleys.com
The landscape and villages of the Rhone are ideal for vinous explorations – there are always some new wines to discover. The quantity of unique and lovingly crafted wines to be found across the vast 71,000 hectares is immense. It is a region, we at Gauntley’s have been passionate about, and investigating for over 40 years, and we still feel like there are many stones left unturned; Many more hidden gems left to find, and so we will never stop exploring!
The Rhone Valley is one of France’s oldest and most esteemed wine regions, with vineyard cultivation dating basic thousands of years. Stretching from Vienne to Avignon in the South-East of France, this beautiful valley is split into two wholly unique regions: The Northern and Southern Rhone. Separated by a small 20-mile vineless stretch of land, each area has its own unique characteristics – varying geographies, climates, soils and grape varietals – but are connected by the magnificent winding river that gives them their name.
Enjoy exploring all that the Southern Rhone has to offer below. From the iconic Châteauneuf du Pape and Gigondas, to hidden gems like Rasteau, Vinsobres, Costières de Nîmes and Ventoux, each sub-region offers a distinct expression of the Southern Rhône’s winemaking prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious wine enthusiast, a journey through the Southern Rhône is an exploration of the senses, where age-worthy reds, vibrant whites, and unforgettable experiences await. This region offers something for everyone, from the luxurious and prized names and bottles to the affordable gems to be uncovered just around the corner.
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The Southern Rhône region, located south of Valence in France, boasts a rich history that dates back centuries. The ancient Greeks first introduced viticulture to this picturesque land, recognising its potential for producing exceptional wines. However, it wasn’t until the Roman era that wine production truly flourished in the Southern Rhône.
Under Roman influence, vineyards spread across the fertile plains and gentle slopes of the region. The Romans recognised the unique terroir and favourable climate as ideal for cultivating grapes and began planting vineyards extensively. Over time, the Southern Rhône became renowned for its wines, which were highly sought after throughout the Roman Empire.
During the Middle Ages the region only grew in its prominence, mainly due to the influence of the Catholic Church, which played a crucial role in shaping the viticultural landscape, as monasteries and abbeys became important winemaking centres.
Stretching over a vast expanse the Southern Rhône presents a striking contrast to its hilly Northern counterpart. The terrain becomes wider and flatter, showcasing the region’s diverse landscape. Nestled between the Rhône River to the west and the Massif Central mountains to the east, the Southern Rhône benefits from a Mediterranean climate.
Mild winters and hot summers characterise the climate allowing grapes to ripen fully, resulting in structured wines and deep and rich flavour profiles. The terroir is also incredibly diverse, ranging from clay and limestone soils to pebbly alluvial plains. These variations contribute to the unique characteristics found in wines produced throughout the region. The different soil compositions and microclimates ensure that each sub-region and appellation within the Southern Rhône has its distinctive characteristics.
Unlike its northern counterpart, the Southern Rhône allows for a much broader range of grape varieties in winemaking. This diversity opens the door to innovative blends and exceptional wines all around the region. However, one grape variety most certainly stands out as the king of the Southern Rhône – Grenache.
Grenache reigns supreme, particularly in the renowned red wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the flagship cru of the region. Known for its gloriously rich and age-worthy reds, Châteauneuf-du-Pape showcases Grenache’s power, depth, and complexity. Alongside Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre are commonly found in the red blends of the South, forming the classic GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) trio that has become synonymous with the region. Other red varieties of note, frequently used in blends, are Carignan & Cinsault.
In addition to the red varieties, the Southern Rhône also cultivates white grape varieties, including Roussanne, Marsanne, and Viognier. These grapes contribute to the production of exquisite white wines that showcase the region’s diversity and skillful winemaking.
Within the vast and varied landscape of the Southern Rhône, numerous sub-regions and appellations showcase their distinctive expressions of terroir. These areas, each with their unique characteristics, contribute to the richness and diversity of wines produced in the region. Here are a few of the stand-out appellations:
Gigondas: Nestled at the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Gigondas is a rugged and picturesque appellation known for producing robust and age-worthy wines. The vineyards here benefit from a combination of limestone and clay soils, which contribute to the dense and structured character of the wines. Gigondas wines are highly regarded for their power, elegance, and ability to age gracefully. Stand out here include Chateau Saint Cosme and the Charming Thierry Faravel of Domaine la Bouissiere.
Vacqueyras: Located in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail below gigondas, Vacqueyras produces powerful and well-structured wines. The blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes creates wines with depth, richness, and an enchanting bouquet.
Rasteau: Famous for its fortified wines in the past, Rasteau now produces outstanding red wines. The combination of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes results in wines with concentrated flavours, velvety textures, and great aging potential. We are avid proponents of the charming Rasteau wines of Domaine Grand Nicolet and Grands Bois.
Vinsobres: Situated on the hillsides of the pre-Alps, Vinsobres benefits from a cooler climate and varied terroir, often with heavy proportions of limestone. The wines of Vinsobres exhibit elegance, finesse, minerality and a beautiful balance of fruit and acidity.
Ventoux: The rolling ancient hills and Triassic soils of Ventoux offer a unique environment for winemaking. The vineyards, situated at higher altitudes, benefit from cooler temperatures, which lend freshness and vibrancy to the wines. Ventoux wines showcase a wide range of styles, from elegant and aromatic whites to powerful and structured reds, all reflecting the region’s diverse terroir.
Until very recently this region was considered a source of inexpensive bulk wine, however, people are now realising the enormous potential of the region. Due to the leaner regulations, many exciting winemakers are being drawn to the foothills of Ventoux, eager to experiment and showcase the sensational terroir here! A few examples include the wonderful Clos de Trias, Saint Jean du Barroux and Domaine Martinelle.
Costières de Nîmes: Located in the southernmost part of the Rhône Valley, approaching Provence, Costières de Nîmes enjoys a Mediterranean climate influenced by the nearby Camargue. The vineyards here benefit from a diverse terroir of pebbly soil, clay, and limestone, resulting in wines that exhibit vibrant fruit flavors and a distinctive freshness. Costières de Nîmes is known for its red blends, as well as its refreshing white and rosé wines. The flagbearers of this often unjustly overlooked region are the sensational Chateau Mourgues du Gres & Chateau d’Or et de Gueules.
As with a lot of French wine region, the Rhone Valley employs the Appellation Origine Controlle (AOC) system, which was established in 1937: to help improve the quality of the wine throughout the region. Starting with the basic designation of Côtes du Rhône, then ‘Côtes du Rhône Village’ and the top tier appellations being designated as Cru (as opposed to Burgundy and Bordeaux who have ‘Grand’ and ‘Premier’ cru designations for their wines). There are 17 crus in total throughout the Rhône, split 8 in the North and 9 in the South.
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