Two Côtes du Rhône Reds

Two Côtes du Rhône reds

Lying mainly in the southern Rhône, the Côtes du Rhône region is one of the world’s largest appellations.

With a Mediterranean climate influenced by the mistral, the wines are mainly red with a small amount of white and rosé; the main grapes are Grenache noir, Syrah, Cinsault, Carignane, Counoise and Mourvèdre

They say:

With a variety of styles, grape varieties, appellations and possible pairings, there’s a Côtes du Rhône to enhance any celebration. Behind every bottle of Côtes du Rhône wine lies a story of passionate winemakers, sun-soaked vineyards, and centuries of tradition.

One of the standout features of Côtes du Rhône wines is their incredible versatility with food pairings. Whether you’re enjoying a casual aperitif with friends, indulging in classic French cuisine or exploring international flavours, these wines enhance a wide range of dishes.

From a hearty barbecued lamb dish to a delicate seafood platter, Côtes du Rhône wines elevate the dining experience. To fully enjoy your Côtes du Rhône wines this summer, keep the 20/20 rule in mind for optimal serving temperatures.

For reds, a slight chill is ideal — just pop them in the fridge for 20 minutes. Whites and rosés, on the other hand, should be served cool so take them out of the fridge 20 minutes before serving. This simple tip will enhance their finesse and refreshing flavours, ensuring you savour every sip to the fullest.

**Domaine La Perdrière, La Pause, Côtes du Rhône Villages Sablet, 2023, (£16.50, Hourlier Wines)**

They say:

The estate is certified organic and covers 27 hectares at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail in the commune of Sablet.

All the estate’s actions are reasoned and guided by observation. Thanks to this meticulous work, the wines reflect the character of their respective vineyards.

The estate was taken over in 2010 by Vasco Perdigao, supported by his wife Sonia, a former nurse who has now turned her hand to winemaking.

Vasco has practiced his craft and honed his skills with passion for many years in the renowned vineyards of the northern Côtes-du-Rhône. However, it was in the southern Rhône Valley, a region he is particularly fond of, that he decided to set up as a winemaker.

I say:

70% old-vine Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah

Aged for 12 to 18 months in wooden vats, then in concrete tanks.

14.5%

bright translucent ruby; red fruits, garrigue herbs and spice; fresh and pure with ripe red berry fruits, cherries, red and black plums; very fine, gentle tannins, sleek and supple; concentrated, savoury and adept.

Good+.

Drinks nicely on first opening; improves with aeration and will repay some cellaring.

Match with charcuterie, plain roast beef or lamb or herby butcher’s sausages.

**Domaine Marcel Richaud, Les Galets, Côtes du Rhône, 2023 (£16.59, D. Byrne & Co)**

They say:

Domaine Richaud, situated in the heart of Cairanne, has a reputation for producing some of the finest wines of the Southern Rhône, characterised by bright fruit, superb balance and great drinkability. Marcel Richaud is the fifth generation of his family to make wine. Stylistically, he sees himself as having more in common with Burgundy’s Côte d‘Or.

I say:

mostly old vines

30% Carignan, 20% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 20% Counoise, 10% Mourvèdre

Aged for 10 months in concrete tanks

14.5%

bright purple; ripe red and black fruits, black olives, fennel, aniseed and garrigue herbs; fresh, structured and concentrated with plush dark fruits, cassis, black cherries and sleek, elegant tannins. Savoury and adept.

Very Good.

Match with darker game, such as duck breast, venison or hare.