AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages

History of the AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages Appellation

The AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages represents the distinctiveness of numerous terroirs in the Rhône Valley. This diverse vineyard has, over the centuries, built a solid reputation for wines characterized by their quality and typicity. The appellation is recognized for its wines from distinct villages like Laudun, Plan-de-Dieu, Visan, and Séguret, each contributing its unique character.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages

• Climate: The Mediterranean climate of the region, marked by hot summers and mild winters, is ideal for viticulture. It contributes to the optimal ripening of the grapes.
• Sols: The soils of the AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages are varied, ranging from rolled pebbles to clay and limestone, providing a great diversity of nuances in the wines.

Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages

The AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages offers a range of red, white, and rosé wines often made from blends of several red and white grape varieties, including:

• White Wines:

  • Clairette
  • Grenache Blanc
  • Roussanne
  • Marsanne
  • Viognier

• Red and Rosé Wines:

  • Grenache
  • Syrah
  • Mourvèdre
  • Cinsault
  • Carignan
  • Counoise

Style of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages Wines

Red wine: The red wines have a garnet red color with purple reflections. The bouquet offers aromas of black fruits, jammy red fruits, garrigue, spices, and a peppery note. On the palate, they are generally full-bodied, well-structured with silky tannins.

White wine: The white wines display a pale straw yellow color. Their nose is marked by aromas of white flowers, white-fleshed fruits (vine peach), with a touch of citrus. On the palate, they are fresh and balanced with a pleasant roundness.

Rosé wine: The rosé wines are appealing with their bright pale pink hues and scents of fresh red fruits and flowers. The palate is lively, light, with a pleasant freshness.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages Wines

Here is our guide for the best food pairings with a bottle of wine from a domaine or château in the AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages for white, rosé, and red wines:

• Red wine :

  • Gigot d’agneau (leg of lamb)
  • Saucisson d’âne (donkey sausage)
  • Barbecue grills

• Rosé wine :

  • Tapas
  • Piperade (Basque vegetable dish)
  • Green tapenade

• White wine :

  • Baked sea bream
  • Rabbit with mustard
  • Monkfish curry