I was introduced to the Côtes du Rhône region of France by a sommelier who had come to my house to deliver an educational wine tasting for family and friends (I won the wine tasting event as part of a silent auction for charity). She asked me ahead of the event what type of wines I liked and what wine regions I was most interested in learning. I immediately answered, France. Not because I knew much about French wine regions at the time but because Jack and I purchased a beautiful French Map while honeymooning on Nantucket. The map not only shows the many different wine regions of France, but it also depicts the unique characteristics of the wines from each of the regions. The map is entirely in French, which I love. but impossible for me to translate so many years post-high school French class. The Sommelier used the map as a back-drop for the wine tasting event – focusing specifically on the Côtes du Rhône region. It was a night to remember!
Red Blends
The Côtes du Rhône is a region within the Rhone Valley of France. The name applies to both red and white wines. The most well-known wines from the Côtes du Rhône are red blends, typically made with three grapes: Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Grenache almost always dominates the blend, particularly in the southern half of the Valley, where the vast majority of Côtes du Rhône wines are made. Syrah contributes structure and spicy notes, while Mourvèdre brings dark chocolate flavor and intense color. The red wines are fruity and middleweight in structure. They can be considered “jammy”, but also earthy in flavor.
White Blends
The most important grape variety in white Côtes du Rhône wines is the Grenache Blanc, followed by Clairette, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Marsanne, and Viognier. The white wines can have a soft texture, balancing flavors like green apple and citrus alongside herbal and minerality which offers a refreshing crispness to the wine.
Pairings
Côtes du Rhône wines are extremely food-friendly and can be “Simply Paired” to match with a wide variety of foods. These wines are meant to elevate a meal, so I like to pair them with simple, comfort food dishes like burgers, roast chicken, and grilled meats. White blends pair really well with fish and sushi. Check out my favorite pairings below. I can’t wait to hear your favorite pairing combinations!
My Favorite Parings
Filet Mignon with Lemon & Basil Sauce
Great summer dish for entertaining. Try
pairing with a Red or White Côtes du Rhône.
Roast Chicken with Salsa Verde
This roast chicken dish is the perfect Spring
comfort food!
Grilled Burger with Spinach, Mushroom & Gruyere
A healthy burger and fries with a “Simply Paired”
Cotes du Rhone. Delicious!
