AOP Costières de Nîmes

History of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Appellation

Despite its geographic position at the edge of the Languedoc region, the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes is part of the Rhône Valley vineyard due to its unique terroir. The AOC Costières-de-Nîmes bridges two regions with wines that have a hybrid identity. Its rich viticultural history dates back to Roman times, as evidenced by the ancient winegrowing remains found in the area.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Appellation

Climate: The Costières-de-Nîmes vineyard enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers, mild winters, and the influence of the Mistral wind, which helps to keep the vines healthy.

Soils: The soil consists of quaternary rolled pebbles, similar to those found in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which retain heat well and aid in the ripening of the grapes.

Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Appellation

The appellation mainly produces red and rosé wines from grape varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Cinsault. The rarer white wines are made from varieties like Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, and Rolle (also known as Vermentino).

Style of AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Wines

White Wine: These wines have a straw-yellow color. On the nose, they reveal aromas of white fruits (peach, pear), citrus (lemon, grapefruit, mandarin), and flowers. They are round and fresh on the palate.

Rosé Wine: These wines have a pale pink color. The rosé wines of AOC Costières-de-Nîmes express notes of red fruits with a pleasant freshness on the palate.

Red Wine: These wines display a deep ruby color. The red wines of AOC Costières-de-Nîmes offer aromas of red and black fruits, plum, spices, and violet. They are generally powerful and generous on the palate, with a good length.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Wines

Here are some suggested dishes to pair with a bottle from an estate or château in AOC Costières-de-Nîmes, whether it is white, red, or rosé:

White Wine:

• Shellfish
• Cod fritters (accras de morue)
• Grilled calamari

Rosé Wine:

• Mediterranean salads
• Ratatouille

Red Wine:

• Bull steak
• Grilled lamb chop
• Spit-roasted suckling pig