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The Rhone Valley looks a great deal like a miniature Italy as it
stretches 200 km (125 mi) from south of Lyon to just south of
Avignon. The climate along this course varies from the Rhone's cold
winters and warm summers to the classic Mediterranean where winters
are mild and summers are hot.
The near constant sun combines with granite soil in the north,
limestone in the south which produces Grenache, Syrah and Carignan
which are used in red wines. It also produces Clairette, Ugni Blanc
and Grenache Blanc for whites.
The Grenache dominates with 55% of the total red-making grape, while
the Clairette makes up 35% of the white. 8-10 thousand winemakers,
spread over 170,000 acres produce 450 million bottles of wine, 75 %
is devoted to the northern full-bodied of Cote Rotie and the
southern fruity reds of Chateauneuf du Pape.
Chartreuse de Valbonne in particular, enjoys a very different
climate than the surrounding Mediterranean. Surrounded by forest
atop horseshoe-shaped hills, there are many terraces composed of
stony chalk and limestone. Some barrels from this area date back to
the 13th century. This area produces Grenache Noir, spicy Syrah and
Viognier Plump with the smell of violet and acacia honey.
The villages of Cairanne and Rasteau are considered among the best
of the Cotes du Rhone villages and are distinct. Those seeking a
more zesty wine will prefer Rasteau's tannic Domaine du Trapadis,
while Cairanne's softer Domaine Catherine Le Goeuil -made from
techniques dating back to the Middle Ages- is appreciated by the
easy-going.
Grenach and Syrah grapes grow from the 11,000 acres of the Cotes du
Rhone village's clay and limestone earth and produce 19 million
bottles of medium body fruity reds.
The history of Gigondas wine can be traced back to the Romans, where
advantage is taken of the Mediterranean weather and the red clay
soil to produce an aromatic alternative to the expensive Chateauneuf
du Pape. 3,000 acres are dedicated to producing the Grenache, Syrah
and Mourvedre which make 5.5 million bottles.
Vignobles Darriaud's Grenache Syrah is perfect for those that need a
little shock of pleasure. This is a full-bodied red with earthy and
plumy aromas. After aging for 3-5 years, chocolate tones combine
with a peppery finish.
The slope of Chateauneuf du Pape, lying between Orange and Avignon
was once the summer home of many Popes. The wine from this area is
thick, powerful and a very rich red made from Grenache, Syrah,
Clairette and ten other varieties. The soil on this 7,600 acres is
quarts and sandy red clay and grows enough vines to produce 13
million bottles that can age as long as 20 years with aromas of red
fruits, cinnamon and vanilla.
Swirl the wine gently, sniff and taste.
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