Rhone
Rhone
The area is split into 2 parts that make very different wines; The Northern Rhone and the Southern Rhone, both parts are affected by the strong cold wind known as the mistral that blows intermittently throughout the region keeping the vineyards clear of mold, mildew, pests and frosts but sometimes causing damage to the vines. The Northern Rhone is smaller and has a continental climate with warm days and cool nights. The best vineyards are situated on the steep river banks of the Rhone river and produce complex, age worthy, terroir driven wines from single varietal Syrah. The most notable wines come from Cote Rotie, Hermitage and Cornas. Although the production is mostly red wine, there is excellent single varietal Viognier (Condrieu) produced as well as Marsanne and Roussanne blends. The Southern Rhone is vastly different, the valley flattens out and there is a huge range of terroir producing a range of different styles. The climate is hot and dry which yields ripe, fruit driven wines. There are numerous wines produced under various appellations from simple Cotes du Rhone (The grapes can come from anywhere in the Rhone) which is medium bodied wine with red fruit and spice character, Cotes du Rhone Villages which has a higher level of concentration and complexity. The 9 Cru Villages produce the best quality wines in the Southern Rhone, the most famous of these villages are Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Vacqueyras which are rich and full bodied with high alcohol levels. Several grape varieties are permitted and the wines are mostly blends that are dominated by Grenache with Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault playing supporting roles. A small percentage of white wine is produced from Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Clairette.
