AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu

History of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu

The AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu is an appellation located in the southern part of the Rhône Valley, in the Vaucluse and Gard departments. The origin of the name "Plan de Dieu" dates back to the Middle Ages, when this vast stony plateau was crossed by pilgrims and travelers. The region was once a wild, uncultivated area but was gradually developed for viticulture. The appellation received the "Villages" designation in 2005, recognizing the quality of the wines produced in this specific zone.

Climate and terroir of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu

• Climate: The climate of AOC Plan de Dieu is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The Mistral, the dominant wind of the Rhône Valley, blows regularly, contributing to the health of the vines by reducing humidity and disease.
• Soil: The terroir is characterized by a plateau made up of rolled pebbles and red clay, which retain the day's heat and release it at night (similar to the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard). This stony soil encourages optimal ripening of the grapes and contributes to the wines' power.

The grape varieties of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu

The AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu appellation produces only red wines from blends of typical southern Rhône grape varieties. The main grape varieties are Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. These complementary red varieties each bring their characteristics to create balanced wines that are rich, structured, and complex.

Style of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu wines

Appearance: The red wines from Plan de Dieu have a deep garnet red color.

Nose: Rich and powerful, the nose reveals aromas of black fruits (blackberry, blackcurrant), spices (pepper, licorice), and garrigue notes, with occasional hints of leather or tobacco.

Palate: The profile is round and full-bodied, with silky, well-integrated tannins. Flavors of ripe fruit, spices, and a long aromatic persistence are present. Their structure provides a fine balance between power and finesse.

Serving temperature: between 16 and 18 °C.

Aging potential: The red wines of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu have good aging potential, ranging from 5 to 10 years, or even more depending on the estate and vintage.

The best food and wine pairings with a wine from AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu

Here are some dishes that pair perfectly with a bottle of red wine from the Rhône Valley, from a domain or château in AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages - Plan de Dieu:

• Navarin of lamb
• Avignon-style daube
• Herb-crusted pork loin
• Leg of lamb with beans
• Wild boar sausage