Cairanne is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) located in the Vaucluse department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Nestled in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley, it is distinguished by its powerful, elegant red wines, made from Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.
The village of Cairanne, nestled at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, is a charming Provencal village. It's home to a rich heritage, with its medieval castle, Romanesque churches and ancient cellars. Cairanne's vineyards cover 750 hectares of clay-limestone and stony soils. The Mediterranean climate, with its hot, dry summers and mild winters, is ideal for ripening grapes. The proportion of organic production in Cairanne PDO is constantly increasing. In 2023, around 25% of the vineyard area will be certified organic, i.e. around 187 hectares
The Cairanne appellation is very recent:
1967: Creation of the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Cairanne appellation
2008: Submission of an application to become a Cru des Côtes du Rhône
2016: Official decree creating the Cairanne appellation
2018: Final approval of the Cairanne appellation
The red wines of Cairanne are characterized by their intense ruby color, their complex nose of spices, black fruits and garrigue, and their full, fleshy mouthfeel. They are endowed with great power and a beautiful tannic structure, which enables them to age for many years.
The less common Cairanne white wines are also very popular. They're dry and fresh, with aromas of yellow fruit and white flowers.
The Cairanne appellation is one of the most popular in France.
The Cairanne appellation is a veritable mosaic of family estates, cooperative wineries and négociants. The Cave Coopérative de Cairanne Camille Cayran is highly qualitative. The domaine Richaud and Domaine de l'Oratoire Saint-Martin are among the fine estates in this appellation.
Here are some food and wine pairing suggestions for Cairanne wines:
Red wines: Grilled red meats, Game
White wines: Grilled fish, cheeses
To discover the Cairanne appellation, here are a few events not to be missed:
Les Automnales de Cairanne: an event held every year in October, where you can taste the wines of the appellation's winemakers.
La Fête des Vins: a popular festival held every year in July, featuring tastings, entertainment and concerts.
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This Cairanne bio from Maison Camille Cayran(Cave de Cairanne) is superb value for money. The nose of this wine is expressive, with notes of black fruits. The palate is powerful and velvety, with complex notes of fruit and sweet spices. Nice overall balance.
RVF : 91/100
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A Cairanne rouge du domaine Richaud very representative of the estate. The color of this organic wine is dense with ripe red fruit. A touch of blackcurrant and morello cherry on the nose. Plenty of volume on the palate, building on the aromas of the nose, ending on a lovely, clean finish with supple tannins.
RVF : 93/100
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This Cairanne blanc du domaine Richaud is very expressive, fruity, long on the palate with notes that blend floral and pear. Serve as an aperitif; it will also accompany white meats or fish.
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In this lovely 2022 vintage, l'Ebrescade from domaine Richaud has plenty of charm. This rich, powerful organic wine is made from old vines from domaine Richaud. The wine features notes of prunes, smoke, sweet spices and has great length.
Guide des meilleurs vins de France 2025: 93/100
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