FFW 2021 Wine Catalogue

Southern Rhône

RHÔNE SOUTHERNRHÔNE

When you arrive in the southern Rhône the reds move away fromSyrah, which is found in the north, to themore generous flavours of Grenache, Mouvèdre, Cinsault and a plethora of others, all underpinned by amyriad of wild herbs and sunshine. Whites which aremade in smaller quantities featureMarsanne, Rousanne and a few others, and tend towards an oilier texture, a richer style with plenty of beguiling aromatics and are natural food partners. Themain appellation of the south is Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which is in fact France’s oldest AC, designated in 1936. Here there are a broad range of wine styles produced and some iconic estates such as Rayas , Vieux Télégraphe , Beaucastel and a host of others. Many will make “second wines” as well. Vintages have been stunning recently with a fabulous run of 15, 16 and 17 to enjoy. Equally this is an area where one can find terrific value for money and great ageability. Aside fromCNDP look out for the appellations of Vacqueyras and Gigondas, and enjoy the wines of Clos de Cazaux , under the stewardship of Monsieur Vache, who as well as being a formidable winemaker is quite the expert on tea! Tavel rosé is here too, and this tends towards a deeper colour and flavour than thosemade further south in Provence, but some good value is to be had.

Lirac is an appellation often overlooked but provides some delicious drinking: the reds of Domaine de laMordorée are worth seeking out. And of course, one can’t forget the sweet wine, Muscat de Beaumes de Venise. Appellations Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Rhône Villages demonstrate some brilliant value andmarvellous drinking. Look out for Coudoulet de Beaucastel in AOC Côtes-du-Rhône, which is just wonderful, wholly organic, and extremely well made by family Perrin, who own Château Beaucastel . An amazing estate, Beaucastel makes fabulous Châteauneuf- du-Pape fromno fewer than 15 of the permitted grape varieties. And finally, do seek out the wines of Domaine Soumade in Rasteau, these are wonderful reds, and Eric Romero and family are highly regarded, and rather wonderful to visit. Julian Chamberlen

CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE

CLASSIC GRAPE VARIETALS

FAVOURITE PRODUCERS

Red: Syrah and Grenache; White: Marsanne, Rousanne and Viognier SOIL TYPE Galets (pudding stones)

Beaucastel, Rayas, Vieux Telegraphe, Clos des Papes and Chapoutier

AREA UNDER VINE 3,200ha

70

WINE CATALOGUE