Côtes du Rhône

The wine

Côtes-du-Rhône is the largest appellation of the Rhône valley, covering 171 communes on both banks from Vienne to Avignon. Most production is red, built around a grenache-dominant blend with syrah, mourvèdre and cinsault. The style is generous, fruity and warm, with red fruit, garrigue and sweet spice. Villages wines, often followed by a commune name (Cairanne, Sablet, Séguret, Valréas...), gain concentration. Much is meant for early drinking (within five years), but the best Villages and recent vintages hold ten. Perfect for Mediterranean cuisine, grilled meats, ratatouille, tagines and aged goat cheeses.