AOC Beaumes-de-Venise

History of the AOC Beaumes-de-Venise Appellation

Nestled in the heart of the Dentelles de Montmirail in Vaucluse, the Beaumes-de-Venise appellation is part of the rich viticultural history of the Rhône Valley, with roots dating back to Roman times. While it's an integral part of the Côtes du Rhône, it gained AOC recognition in 2005, although its naturally sweet wines (AOC Muscat-de-Beaumes-de-Venise) have been renowned for centuries.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Beaumes-de-Venise Appellation

• Climate: The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate typical of the southern Rhône Valley, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The beneficial influence of the mistral wind also provides natural protection against vine diseases.
• Soils: The AOC Beaumes-de-Venise appellation extends over limestone and clay terroirs, interspersed with marl and rocky outcrops, contributing to the complexity of the produced red wines.

Grenache and Syrah: Emblematic Grape Varieties of the AOC Beaumes-de-Venise

• Grenache Noir: The quintessential Mediterranean grape variety, Grenache is essential in the Rhône Valley. In the AOC Beaumes-de-Venise, Grenache must represent a minimum of 50% of the blend, providing generous notes of black fruits and a beautiful roundness.
• Syrah: Syrah must represent a minimum of 25% of the blend, imparting power and freshness to the red wines of AOC Beaumes-de-Venise.

Style of AOC Beaumes-de-Venise Wine

• Appearance: Deep red color, ranging from ruby to garnet.
• Nose: The bouquet is expressive, combining aromas of black fruits (blueberry, blackberry) and spices (pepper, licorice), sometimes underscored by hints of garrigue and leather after a few years of aging.
• Palate: Structured and generous, the palate reveals beautiful concentration and controlled power. The tannins are present but silky, and the persistent finish often evokes indulgent notes of cocoa and sweet spices.

Serving Temperature:

• 16°-18°C

Aging Potential:

• Beaumes-de-Venise reds can be enjoyed when young, but depending on the domain and vintage, they can gain complexity after 5 to 8 years of aging.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Beaumes-de-Venise Wine

For a harmonious pairing with a bottle of AOC Beaumes-de-Venise red wine, opt for flavorful dishes that can match the power of these red wines:

• Provençal beef daube
• Hare stew
• Confit duck legs
• Lamb curry
• Country pâté