Winemaker Notes
This cuvée is sourced from gobelet-trained vines on the nearby plateau of Signargues, which features the same rocky alluvial soils as Châteauneuf-du Pape, just across the Rhône. The endless expanse of galets roulés (polished riverbed stones) that litter the ground is the ideal terroir for producing wines of great character and typicity in this iconic sun-baked region. We aimed for maximum drinkability in their blend, and accordingly, you’ll find plenty of hedonistic, purple tinged fruit in this wine, along with a hint of wild herbs and lovely floral notes akin to lavender and violets. A touch of supple tannin and a stony finish provide texture and just enough grit to this smooth-flowing rouge.
It is a plump, yet delightfully juicy Rhône red that can be sipped casually with a slight chill as an apéritif or on movie night, but has enough weight to stand up to burgers, pizza, grilled meats, or anything else you might throw its way.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Typically thought of as a baby Chateâuneuf-du-Pape, the term Côtes du Rhône actually doesn’t merely apply to the flatter outskirts of the major southern Rhône appellations, it also includes the fringes of well-respected northern Rhône appellations. White wines can be produced under the appellation name, but very little is actually made.
The region offers some of the best values in France and even some first-rate and age-worthy reds. Red wine varieties include most of the Chateâuneuf-du-Pape varieties like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Counoise, as well as Carignan. White grapes grown include Grenache blanc, Roussanne and Viognier, among others.