Côtes-du-rhône Wine Descriptions

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ABOUT COTES DU RHONE WINES. LOCATION: The Côtes du Rhône vineyards run along the banks of the Rhône River between Lyon and Avignon in South East France. The region is divided in two distinct parts, North and South. Both areas are primarily known for red wines. The area covers about 100 000 acres of vines (half of the Rhône Valley total acreage) over 171 villages. Grapes can be sourced from one single vineyard or from as many villages as 171. NORTHERN RHONE: The vines benefit from a semi-continental climate between Vienne and Valence, where the Syrah grape variety is at its best. These wines are superb with elegance and subtleness that pair nicely with stews which have simmered for hours, sausages, steaks, creamy cheeses, etc. SOUTHERN RHONE: Between Montélimar and Avignon, the climate is fully Mediterranean with the Grenache grape variety far in the lead. Associated with the Syrah and Mourvèdre grape varieties, it brings spicy notes which enhance southern cooking such as different vegetable dishes, lamb, and grilled or roasted meats. Côtes du Rhône can also be white wines, with primary white grapes that include Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne. Pairs well with chicken, fish, white meat and salads - as well alone as an aperitif. FRUITY / SPICY STYLE: Good words to describe Côtes du Rhône wines are dry, fruity and sometimes spicy and peppery. Compared to some other well-known French red wines, Côtes du Rhône have more ripeness. Overall, red wines of the Rhône are generous in their flavors and aromas and usually not overly tannic (or rough), which makes them relatively easy to enjoy, even at a young age. They are made with food in mind, easy to accommodate with almost all kind of meals. LEVEL OF APPELLATIONS: Entry level appellation Côtes du Rhône accounts for 80% of the entire valley’s production and present the simplest flavor profile. The “Côtes du Rhône Villages” tier, exclusive to the South, is comprised of 95 specific villages; 18 villages (out of the 95) may affix their name to the “Côtes du Rhône Villages” appellation (Rasteau, Cairanne, Séguret, etc.). At the top, 15 local crus correspond to 15 villages (8 Northern, 7 Southern) whose appellations and wines are even more distinguished, and embraced by connoisseurs and collectors (Côte-Rôtie, St Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Vinsobres, Beaumes-de-Venise, etc.). ADDITIONAL: Rhône Valley wines were already known by the Romans who delighted in tasting « wines from the Vienne area ». And of course, the Popes who resided in Avignon in the XIVth century contributed to the development of the surrounding vineyards. Today, these wines are particularly appreciated in the greatest restaurants in France as well as in the United States, where famous wine critics rate them with exceptional notations. For more information about the Côtes du Rhône wines, please visit www.rhone-wines.com Photo credits: © Inter-Rhone – Description from efabunan

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