Côtes du Rhône Rouge

Region: Southern Rhône, France

Grapes: Grenache Noir, Syrah

Vines have been grown on the Plaine du Plan de Dieu in the heart of the southern Rhône since the Middles Ages.

Back then, you took your life in your hands crossing the plain, as bandits freely roamed the land (perhaps giving rise to its name, as whether you lived or died was up to God). Current proprietor Pascal Maillet originally studied computer science and had nothing to do with wine, but this changed almost overnight in 1993 when Pascal and his wife, Marie- Pierre, bought this family domaine. They now work the stony, clay-limestone soils of the plain to create wonderful vigorous wines in a traditional style from 35-year-old vines. Full of garrigue notes with sweet black fruit and nuances of spice, these wines are some the best hand-crafted offerings in the southern Rhône. God can indeed work in mysterious ways.

Viticulture: In the central valley of the southern Rhône heartland sits the family-owned Domaine de la Berthète. Close to fifty hectares of vineyards are cultivated according to eco-friendly principles on classic ‘argilo-calcaire’ terroir.

Winemaking: Total destemming of the grapes with a traditional vinification, and maceration for 10 to 12 days at a controlled temperature.

Tasting Note: Ripe aromas of sweet-ripe fruit overlaid with an intriguing nuance of spice mingled with the warmth of sunny summers; round, smooth flavours layered with a fresh streak follow with some depth leading to a friendly and satisfying finish.