In the heartland of the Southern Rhône, east of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, lie three properties from relatively unassuming appellations that have quietly been making waves in the world of wine.
Wine lovers would do well to seek out these Grenache-based blends from legends Château Pesquié in Ventoux, Domaine des Tours in Vacqueyras, and Domaine Santa Duc in Gigondas. Syrah, Cinsault, Counoise and Mourvèdre are added to the Grenache in varying quantities, resulting in complex, layered reds with great structure and epic drinkability.
From the visionary Chaudière brothers, the high-altitude Pesquié Terrasses Ventoux Rouge 2021 is ‘outstanding’, says Jeb Dunnuck. The 2021 is chalky and medium-bodied, with delicious depth and density. From Emmanuel Reynaud’s hands comes the rarely seen Tours Vaucluse Rouge 2019. Elegant and more mineral than exotic – with true Tours typicity – it’s particularly fresh and classic for the vintage.
Finally, from Benjamin Gras, who has taken his family’s wines to a whole new level, the Santa Duc Gigondas Aux Lieux Dits 2020 is a masterpiece in blending. This red is smoky, stony and spicy with lush cherries, violets and great energy – it’s one of my all-time favourites.
Check out all of our wines from the Southern Rhône here.
