Costieres-de-Nimes is a great area of the Rhone Valley which is often overlooked in favour of the better known Cotes-du-Rhone appellation. Well, that's all the better for those of us looking for really great value.
This red wine is made by Christian and Caroline Gourjon from organic and biodynamic vineyards nestled in a nature zone designated to protect the little bustard (illustrated on the label). It is named for their daughter, Héloïse, who, like the wine, exudes joie de vivre and cheerfulness. The blend of Syrah, Grenache and Marselan fully express the unique terroir.
In the glass the colour is dark red with purplish reflections. The nose is alive with black and red bramble fruits. On the palate this wine is full and generous with flavours of blueberry jam and wild strawberries. The tannins are velvety and smooth, gently caressing the palate.
Pair this with slow cooked stews, its especially good with Osso Buco.
The Rhône Valley has been a hub of wine culture since ancient times. Viticulture arrived with the Greeks in the 4th century BC. But it was the Romans who really established the vineyards and reputation of the area using the Rhône as their highway through France.
The region's wines are known for their richness, depth, and complexity, and their ability to age beautifully. They many illustrious villages including Chateauneuf du Pape and Côte-Rôtie.
Found throughout northern Spain and southern France, there are three variants: Grenache Noir, Blanc and Gris.
Grenache Noir is the most common. It is generally spicy, berry-flavored and soft on the palate. Complex and intense notes of blackcurrants, black cherries, black olives, coffee, gingerbread, honey, leather, black pepper, tar, spices, and roasted nuts can also be found.
A red grape variety that is widely planted around the world, particularly in southern France, South Africa and Australia. Typically wines are full-bodied and deeply coloured.
Generally called Syrah in the old world, or Shiraz in the new. It produces wines which are typically high in tannins and acidity, and can exhibit a range of flavors and aromas, including blackberry, black pepper, smoke, and leather.
For four generations the Gourjon family have farmed the terraces of the Rhône. Their wines are a delicate, yet powerful expression of a centuries-old vineyard.
Set at the crossroads of the Costières de Nîmes and Côtes du Rhône appellations, Château Font Barrièle is a jewel in the heart of history. Forming part of a nature reserve, their emblem is the little bustard, a protected species which soars above the vineyards.
