AOC Côtes du Rhône Brezème

The IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème constitutes one of the most singular and confidential wine-growing territories in the Rhône Valley. Located in the Drôme, on the left bank of the river, south of Valence, Brézème occupies a geographical position at the crossroads of the influences of the northern Rhône and the southern Rhône. This unique location gives Brézème wines an identity of their own, blending freshness, structure and precise aromatic expression, in a style that is increasingly appealing to lovers of authentic wines and little-known terroirs.

The viticultural history of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème dates back to antiquity. Vines have been cultivated since Roman times on these south-facing hillsides, benefiting from generous sunshine and direct proximity to the Rhône, a major axis for traffic and trade. For a long time, Brézème enjoyed a high reputation, before gradually falling into the shadow of the great neighboring appellations. Over the last few decades, a qualitative revival driven by committed winemakers has restored this terroir to its rightful place in the Rhone wine landscape.

The Brézème vineyard is one of the most prestigious in France.

The vineyards of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème are planted on well-exposed hillsides with moderate but marked slopes, resting on predominantly limestone soils mixed with clay and scree. This geological composition favors excellent drainage and naturally limits vine vigor, contributing to the aromatic concentration of the grapes. The limestone soils provide the wines with a mineral framework and structuring freshness, while the clays reinforce density and depth on the palate.

The climate of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème is marked by a dual influence. The continental conditions of the Northern Rhône manifest themselves in significant temperature amplitudes between day and night, while the more southerly influence provides sufficient sunshine to achieve optimal ripeness. The mistral, which is frequent in this area, plays a fundamental role in cleaning up the vineyards and enables environmentally-friendly viticulture, with naturally limited sanitary pressure.

The IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème bio is experiencing growing interest, driven by producers convinced that this demanding terroir can be fully expressed through cultivation practices that respect the living world. Organic viticulture is particularly well-suited here, thanks to the natural ventilation of the hillsides and the draining nature of the soil. Working the soil, limiting yields and abandoning chemical inputs help preserve the natural balance of the vines and produce grapes of great purity.

The grape varieties grown in the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème reflect this pivotal position between northern and southern Rhône. Syrah takes center stage for red wines, offering elegant, structured expressions marked by aromas of black fruits, violets, pepper and licorice. Grenache often completes the blends, bringing roundness and fruitiness, while some producers also choose to vinify Cinsault or Carignan to reinforce finesse and drinkability.

The red wines of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème stand out for their balance and freshness. The organically-farmed expressions favor measured extraction, revealing fine tannins and harmonious structure. On the palate, the wines combine depth and tension, offering a precise reading of the terroir. This natural elegance allows Brézème wines to be accessible in their youth while possessing interesting ageing potential.

The white wines of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème, although more confidential, deserve special attention. Made from grape varieties such as Viognier, Roussanne or Marsanne, they offer subtle, balanced aromatic profiles. Aromas of white-fleshed fruit, flowers and sometimes mineral notes are expressed with finesse, supported by a freshness that reflects the northern influence of the terroir. Organic practices enhance the aromatic clarity and precision of the balances.

In the cellar, winemakers committed to the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème bio adopt vinifications that respect the raw material. Fermentations are often carried out with indigenous yeasts, extractions are adapted to the maturity of the vintage, and ageing is carried out in vats or barrels, with wood generally used sparingly. The aim is to preserve the identity of the grape variety and terroir, without masking the wine's natural expression.

The wines of the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème naturally find their place at the table. The reds are the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, slow-cooked dishes and local cuisine, while the whites go harmoniously with fish, poultry and vegetable dishes. Their balance and freshness make them gastronomic wines, capable of sublimating a wide range of dishes.

Today, the IGP Côtes du Rhône Brézème, particularly in its organic expressions, embodies an exciting rediscovery of the Rhône Valley. This confidential terroir, supported by committed and demanding winemakers, offers wines that are sincere, elegant and deeply rooted in their origins. Brézème has thus established itself as an essential geographical indication for connoisseurs in search of organic Rhône wines that are authentic, precise and singular.