Red wines from the Rhône Valley are known for their power, complexity and great variety, and the southern part of the region is particularly famous for its full-bodied and aromatic wines. The Southern Rhône is home to some of the most iconic and prized red wines in the world, and a variety of grapes are grown here, creating wines with rich flavors, high alcohol content and generally a nice balance between fruit and spice.
The most well-known grape in the southern Rhône is Grenache , which forms the main ingredient in many of the region's red wines. Grenache produces wines with intense fruitiness, a full mouthfeel, and flavor notes of dark berries, spices, and undertones of leather and pepper. Grenache-driven wines are often very approachable and well-balanced, making them perfect for dishes such as grilled meats, lamb, beef, and charcuterie.
In addition to Grenache, other important grape varieties used in southern Rhône wines include Syrah , Mourvèdre , Cinsault and Carignan . Syrah produces wines with powerful, dark fruits and spices, while Mourvèdre adds structure, depth and complex spice and leather notes. Cinsault and Carignan add freshness and lightness, creating a beautiful balance in the wines.
One of the most well-known appellations in the southern Rhône is Châteauneuf-du-Pape , where the wines are often a blend of the aforementioned grapes and offer a complex taste experience with layers upon layers of spice, fruit and earthy notes. These wines are excellent for aging and develop wonderfully over time.
Other excellent appellations in the southern Rhône include Gigondas , Vacqueyras , Côtes du Rhône Villages and Lirac , all of which produce high-quality red wines. These wines are often powerful, full-bodied and aromatic with notes of berries, pepper, spices and herbs – perfect for the rich, Mediterranean-inspired food that the region is known for.
Red wines from the Southern Rhône are versatile and go perfectly with dishes featuring beef, lamb and game, as well as spicy meals and grilled meats. Discover our selection of red wines from the Southern Rhône and enjoy the complex, fruity and spicy wines that reflect the warmth and character of the region
