Pouilly-Fuissé vs Pouilly-Fumé: the secrets of two wines with misleading names

Côte-Rôtie: A legendary appellation of the Northern Rhône A true gateway to the Rhône Valley and its northernmost appellation, Côte-Rôtie is also one of the most spectacular. Planted on slopes that can reach 60°, the vines have endured these conditions for centuries. Let's explore this exceptional appellation together. A bit of history Ancient origins The Greeks and Romans already praised the wines produced around Ampuis, which they called "Viennese wines." The first mentions date back to 71 BC, in the writings of Pliny the Elder. However, the Roman Empire later prohibited the planting of vines outside of Italy to limit competition, leading to a period of neglect for the wine-growing region until the 3rd century. The Renaissance in the Middle Ages and the Modern Era In 280, Emperor Probus once again authorized the planting of vines, marking the revival of the Rhône vineyards. In 1592, the first modern records of Côte-Rôtie wines appeared, already renowned beyond the Lyon region. The Maugiron family, owners of Château d'Ampuis, plays a central role in the renown of the appellation. Legend has it that the lord of Maugiron divided his estate between his two daughters: the brunette, to the north (Côte Brune), and the blonde, to the south (Côte Blonde). Crises and renewal in the 20th century Phylloxera, world wars… the first half of the 20th century was disastrous. In 1940, the Côte-Rôtie AOC was officially recognized, but only for red wines. In 1946, Étienne Guigal founded an estate that would become emblematic of the appellation's revival. Thanks to decades of effort, the vineyard area has grown from 40 ha in 1945 to nearly 250 ha in 2009, driven by around one hundred passionate producers. Grape varieties and terroirs Syrah and Viognier: a unique blend Côte-Rôtie is an exclusively red wine appellation, centered on Syrah. A notable feature: it allows up to 20% Viognier, a white grape variety, in the blend, bringing finesse and aromatic complexity. A spectacular vineyard The vineyard stretches for 10 km, at an altitude of 150 to 300 meters, across the communes of Saint-Cyr-sur-Rhône, Ampuis and Tupins-Semons. The vines are deeply rooted in fissured soil, allowing them to withstand heat and wind. Two major geographical areas To the north: deep, iron-rich soil, which produces structured and powerful wines. To the south: lighter, calcareous and sandy soil, where Viognier is more prevalent. The wines produced there are finer, more elegant and aromatic. Iconic place names The appellation is divided into 73 registered localities. Among the best known are: Côte-Brune Côte-Blonde Côte-Rozier La Landonne Red House Main Squares And many more… Winemaking and aging Yields are limited to 40 hl/ha. Vinification may include a Syrah/Viognier co-fermentation. Aging typically lasts from 18 months to 3 years, often in large oak casks, to promote complexity and harmony in the wines. Wine profile and aging potential Two great expressions of the local region North: deep, structured, powerful wines with strong aging potential. South: fruity, fresh, more elegant wines, accessible when younger. Aromatic notes and aging On the nose: red and black fruits (blackcurrant, raspberry), spices, then, with age, prune, vanilla, leather. On the palate: elegant, round, silky, with persistent aromas of spices and black fruits. These are wines meant for aging, with some vintages able to wait up to 15 years before reaching their peak. Interested in discovering these wines? If this preview has whetted your appetite, discover our selection of Côte-Rôtie wines in our shop!

Saint-Joseph wines: grape varieties, terroirs and estates to discover The Saint-Joseph appellation, a true hidden gem of Rhône Valley winemaking, opens the doors to a captivating and diverse tasting adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Rhône Valley, it offers a breathtaking oenological journey, showcasing two colorful jewels: the red and white wines of Saint-Joseph. A Historical Heritage to Discover Like Côte-Rôtie, the renown of Saint-Joseph wines is rooted in the region's millennia-old history. Yet, it is only in recent decades that this appellation has truly come to the forefront of the wine world. Long overlooked in favor of its famous neighbors, Saint-Joseph has gradually emerged from obscurity, attracting the attention of wine enthusiasts worldwide. A Range of Terroirs and Grape Varieties The wines of Saint-Joseph derive their unique character from the diverse terroirs that nurture them. The vines flourish on steep slopes, creating an ideal environment for cultivating Syrah, the star grape variety of red wines. But the distinctive feature of Saint-Joseph lies in its innovative blend: the subtle marriage of Syrah and the white Roussanne grape, which gives the wines a characteristic aromatic finesse and velvety texture. The Saint-Joseph vineyard stretches along the Rhône Valley, offering a range of unique terroirs, from granitic to clay and limestone soils. Each plot contributes to shaping wines with diverse personalities, from the structured reds of the north to the fresh and fruity whites of the south. An Authentic Development Process The creation of Saint-Joseph wines is the result of a meticulous and traditional process. Winemakers carefully limit yields to guarantee optimal quality, while fermentation can be carried out separately or in co-fermentation, creating a harmonious balance between the grape varieties. The aging process, a crucial step in the creation of Saint-Joseph wines, takes place in oak barrels, adding depth and complexity to the wines. Each bottle testifies to the winemakers' dedication and the authentic expression of the terroir. A Festival of Flavors and Aromas Tasting Saint-Joseph wines is a captivating sensory experience. The red wines reveal an aromatic bouquet that oscillates between ripe red fruits and spicy notes, while the whites charm with their floral and fruity aromas. On the palate, the range of flavors evolves, unveiling a complex palette that extends from crisp fruit notes to deeper hints of leather and spice. The wines of Saint-Joseph are not merely an instant delight. Their aging potential transforms them into true treasures to cherish. Whether you opt for early tasting of the fruity whites or prefer to patiently wait for the reds to develop into a symphony of flavors, each bottle offers a unique adventure at every stage of its evolution. A Journey for the Senses If the fascinating history and triumphant renaissance of the Saint-Joseph appellation pique your curiosity, it's time to embark on an exceptional wine journey. Explore the picturesque landscapes of the Rhône Valley, discover exciting wine estates, and uncover the very essence of this fertile land with every sip of wine. Saint-Joseph, with its red and white wines, opens the doors to a world where history, the diversity of its terroirs, and the dedication of its winemakers combine to create an unforgettable tasting experience. Let yourself be seduced by the unique flavors of this appellation and immerse yourself in a wine adventure that will awaken your senses and nurture your passion for wine. The wines of Saint-Joseph, whether red or white, embody the rich heritage and exceptional diversity of the Rhône Valley. With varied terroirs and a winemaking tradition steeped in history, Saint-Joseph offers a captivating and authentic wine experience. Whether you are a lover of structured reds or a fan of fresh and fruity whites, discovering the wines of Saint-Joseph promises an unparalleled sensory and gustatory adventure. Immerse yourself in this enchanting wine world and let yourself be swept away by the magic of Saint-Joseph wines, where each bottle tells a unique and unforgettable story. What dishes go well with a Saint-Joseph wine? Reds : roast lamb, grilled ribeye steak, wild boar stew, aged cheeses White wines : chicken in cream sauce, veal stew, grilled fish, goat cheeses Childcare and service advice Red wines can be aged for 5 to 10 years, sometimes longer for top-quality vintages. White wines are best enjoyed young or after 2-3 years of aging. Decant young reds and serve at 16-17°C, and whites at 10-12°C. To go further Official website of the Saint-Joseph AOC Hachette Guide - Saint-Joseph Fact Sheet

Light Red Wines: The New Trend to Discover Light red wines are shaking up the wine world. If you're looking to explore new flavors and embrace a more relaxed approach to wine, this category is for you. Combining freshness, lightness, and enjoyment, discover why and how these wines are becoming essential. Between Red and Rosé Light red wines fall somewhere between classic red and rosé. Their main advantage lies in their low alcohol content, often lower than that of traditional red wines. This characteristic allows them to showcase vibrant, fruity aromas, perfect for relaxed and convivial tastings. A new consumer trend Light red wine is part of a new consumption trend: drinking it chilled and simply. With their vibrant and appealing color, these wines are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Notes of grenadine, fresh menthol hints, and tangy nuances enrich their flavor profile, making each sip a true sensory experience. Glouglou Wines: Pleasure Above All Also known as "easy-drinking wines," light red wines prioritize drinkability and immediate enjoyment. Perfectly suited to summer, they are best enjoyed chilled, straight from an ice bucket, a refrigerated wine cellar, or even the refrigerator. This relaxed way of savoring wine enhances their appeal to younger generations seeking simplicity and authenticity. Choose Light Red Wines Light red wines are more than just a trend: they represent a new way to enjoy wine. Perfect for summer, they promise pleasant and memorable tasting moments. Rouge Osé – Les Jamelles : A light and fresh red wine with an expressive and inviting nose of fresh red berries and grenadine, enhanced by a touch of menthol. This very refreshing wine, with no tannins, is perfect for a simple and enjoyable stroll. Rouge Clair – Michel Chapoutier: Its delicate tannins, subtle vanilla notes, and pleasant acidity make it a delicious and enjoyable wine. To enjoy it at the perfect temperature, wait until the "& Chilled" indicator lights up on the label. Boogie Woogie – Aubert & Mathieu: With aromas of strawberry and raspberry, this organic wine offers a delightful hint of red berry compote. Perfect for lovers of light, fruity wines. Pinot Noir Low Nat – Les Jamelles This organic wine, at 9% ABV, presents aromas of red fruits (redcurrant, raspberry) and floral notes of violet with a touch of oak. With its tangy red fruit and light tannins, it finishes with a refreshing aftertaste.