What You Should Know About Rhone Wines
Rhone wines are some of the most celebrated in the world, known for their rich flavours, depth, and complexity. In the last years, they have gained popularity among wine enthusiast around the world. That is why, today we will walk you through the essentials of Rhone wines, focusing on the Rhone Valley, the varieties available, and how to choose the best Rhone wines, so that when you try them, you know the history behind these famous French wines.
Introduction to Rhone Wines
The Rhone Valley in France is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine regions in the world. Located between Vienne in the north and Avignon in the south, the valley has vineyards that produce some of the most distinctive wines. Known for their robust flavours and aromatic complexity, Rhone wines have a unique place in the hearts of wine lovers.
Understanding the Rhone Valley
Geography and Climate
The Rhone Valley is divided into two main sub-regions - Northern Rhone and Southern Rhone. Each sub-region has its own unique characteristics, influenced by their geographical and climatic conditions.
Northern Rhone: This area is characterised by steep, terraced vineyards. The climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers. This region is known for producing Syrah, the only red grape variety grown here.
Southern Rhone: In contrast, Southern Rhone has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. This sub-region is diverse in terms of grape varieties, producing both red and white wines. Grenache is the dominant grape here, often blended with Syrah, Mourvedre, and other varieties.
Varieties of Rhone Wines
Red Rhone Wines
Red wines from the Rhone Valley are renowned for their intensity and depth. Some of the most popular varieties include:
Syrah (Northern Rhone): Known for its dark fruit flavours, such as blackberry and plum, and its spicy, peppery notes.
Grenache (Southern Rhone): Offers flavours of red fruit, like cherry and raspberry, with hints of white pepper and herbs.
Mourvedre (Southern Rhone): Adds complexity with its earthy, gamey flavours and dark fruit notes.
White Rhone Wines
Though less common, Rhone Valley also produces exceptional white wines. Key varieties include:
Viognier (Northern Rhone): Known for its aromatic profile, with notes of peach, apricot, and floral scents.
Marsanne and Roussanne (Southern Rhone): Often blended together, these grapes offer flavours of honey, nuts, and stone fruits.
Choosing the Best Rhone Wines
With such a diverse range of wines, selecting the best Rhone wines can be a delightful challenge. Here are some tips:
Look for Appellation D'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) Labels
Rhone wines are classified under the French AOC system, which guarantees the quality and origin of the wine. Some prestigious AOCs to look out for include:
Cote-Rotie (Northern Rhone): Known for its powerful and elegant Syrah wines.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape (Southern Rhone): Famous for its rich, full-bodied red blends.
Hermitage (Northern Rhone): Renowned for its age-worthy Syrah wines.
Consider the Vintage
The quality of Rhone wines can vary depending on the vintage. Researching good vintages can help you select wines that will offer the best drinking experience. For example, 2015 and 2016 were exceptional years for Rhone wines.
Read Reviews and Tasting Notes
Wine reviews and tasting notes can provide valuable insights into the flavours and characteristics of different Rhone wines. Look for wines that align with your personal preferences, whether you enjoy bold, spicy reds or aromatic white wines.
Conclusion
Rhone wines offer a captivating exploration of flavours and aromas, reflecting the rich terroir of the Rhone Valley. Whether you're new to Rhone wines or a long-time aficionado, there is always something new to discover in this historic wine region. Enhance your wine collection by exploring the best Rhone wines available and savour the unique experience each bottle brings.
Ready to expand your wine palate? Visit our ecommerce wine store to shop our curated selection of Rhone wines and find your next favourite bottle today. Cheers!
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