AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages

The AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages occupies a central position in the hierarchy of Rhône appellations. It represents a higher level of quality than the regional Côtes du Rhône appellation, and is an essential step towards the crus of the southern Rhône. Spread over several villages located mainly in the southern part of the Rhône Valley, this appellation expresses a remarkable diversity of terroirs, climates and styles, while retaining a common identity based on richness, balance and fruit expression.

The history of Côtes du Rhône Villages is intimately linked to that of the southern Rhône. Since ancient times, vines have been planted on these sun-drenched lands, benefiting from the river's proximity as an axis for trade and wine distribution. Over the centuries, certain villages distinguished themselves by the consistent quality of their production. This gradual recognition led to the official creation of the Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation, designed to enhance the value of more demanding terroirs and more rigorous viticultural practices.

The vineyards of the AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages extend over a mosaic of soils characteristic of the Southern Rhône. Rolled pebbles, red clay, limestone, sand and marl make up a complex geological patchwork. These soils, often poor and draining, force the vines to plunge their roots deep into the soil, enhancing the concentration and aromatic complexity of the wines. The rolled pebbles, emblematic of the region, store heat during the day and release it at night, contributing to even ripening of the grapes.

The Mediterranean climate of the Côtes du Rhône Villages is marked by strong sunshine, hot, dry summers, and regular winds, particularly the mistral. This wind plays a fundamental role in the vineyard's health balance, drying out the bunches and naturally limiting disease. Thermal amplitudes between day and night help to preserve the freshness and acid structure of the wines, a key element in their balance.

The AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages bio has been booming for several years. Many estates have embarked on a conversion to organic farming, sometimes complemented by biodynamic or agroecological practices. This trend is consistent with the appellation's natural conditions, which are particularly favorable to environmentally-friendly viticulture. Working the soil, abandoning the use of herbicides, controlling yields and careful observation of the vines are at the heart of this qualitative approach.

Red wines form the backbone of the AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages. They are mainly based on blends dominated by Grenache, accompanied by Syrah and Mourvèdre, to which other authorized grape varieties may be added. Grenache brings generosity, roundness and fruitiness, Syrah structure and aromatic freshness, while Mourvèdre enhances depth and ageing potential. Wines from organic viticulture stand out for their more precise expression of terroir and an often more digestible texture.

The reds of Côtes du Rhône Villages offer rich, expressive aromatic profiles. Notes of ripe black fruit, cherry, plum and blackberry mingle with aromas of garrigue, spice and sometimes licorice. On the palate, the structure is generally ample, with present but well-integrated tannins, supported by a freshness that avoids heaviness. Depending on the village and winemaking style, some wines focus on accessibility and immediate pleasure, while others possess real ageing potential.

The appellation produces wines that are easy to drink.

The appellation also produces white and rosé wines, more confidential but of great quality. The whites of AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, made from grape varieties such as Roussanne, Marsanne, Grenache Blanc or Clairette, offer complex aromatic profiles, combining white-fleshed fruit, flowers and Mediterranean notes. Their ample structure, underpinned by balanced acidity, makes them particularly well-suited to gastronomy. Rosés stand out for their freshness, fruitiness and structure, a far cry from standardized expressions.

In the cellar, estates committed to the AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages bio favor vinifications that respect the raw material. Fermentations are often carried out with indigenous yeasts, extractions are controlled to preserve the finesse of the tannins, and ageing is adapted to the style sought, in vats, foudres or barrels, with a measured use of wood. The aim remains to reveal the identity of the terroir without artifice.

The wines of AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages are naturally part of a gastronomic tradition. The reds are ideal with grilled meats, simmered dishes, Mediterranean cuisine and mature cheeses. Whites pair harmoniously with fish, poultry and vegetable dishes, while rosés find their place on convivial summer tables.

Today, the AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, particularly in its organic expressions, embodies a successful synthesis of tradition and modernity. It offers accessible yet ambitious wines capable of expressing the diversity and richness of the terroirs of the Southern Rhône. Thanks to the growing commitment of winegrowers to organic and sustainable viticulture, Côtes du Rhône Villages is asserting itself as an essential appellation for discovering authentic, expressive wines deeply rooted in their territory.