AOC Costières de Nîmes

History of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes

The AOC Costières-de-Nîmes, despite its geographical position on the edge of Languedoc, is part of the Rhône Valley vineyard due to its unique terroir. The AOC Costières-de-Nîmes thus acts as a bridge between two regions, producing wines with a hybrid identity. Its rich winemaking history dates back to Roman times, evidenced by the viticultural remains found in the area.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes

• Climate: The Costières-de-Nîmes vineyard benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers, mild winters, and the cleansing influence of the Mistral wind, which helps keep the vines healthy.
• Soils: The soil consists of Quaternary rolled pebbles, similar to those in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which retain heat well, aiding the ripening of the grapes.

Grape Varieties of the AOC Costières-de-Nîmes

The appellation primarily produces red and rosé wines from the following grape varieties:

• Red and Rosé Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Cinsault.
• White Varieties: Although less common, white wines are made from Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, and Rolle (Vermentino).

Style of AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Wines

• White Wines: These wines have a straw-yellow color. The nose reveals aromas of white fruits (peach, pear), citrus (lemon, grapefruit, mandarin), and flowers. They are round and fresh on the palate.
• Rosé Wines: Featuring a pale pink color, AOC Costières-de-Nîmes rosés express notes of red fruits with a pleasant freshness on the palate.
• Red Wines: These wines have a deep ruby color. They offer aromas of red and black fruits, plum, spices, and violet. Typically, they are powerful and generous on the palate, with a good length.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Costières-de-Nîmes Wines

Here are some pairing suggestions to enjoy with a bottle of AOC Costières-de-Nîmes wine:

• White Wine:

  • Shellfish
  • Accras de morue (cod fritters)
  • Grilled calamari

• Rosé Wine:

  • Mediterranean salads
  • Ratatouille

• Red Wine:

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