AOC Côtes du Ventoux wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

A.O.C./A.O.P.

51 towns and villages, all in the Vaucluse department, share this appellation. The area is delineated in the north by Vaison-la-Romaine and by Apt, in the south. There are two distinct ‘terroirs’: a Rhône-style ‘terroir’ producing more robust wines and a more southerly-style ‘terroir’ where the wines are lighter, less concentrated. Eighty-five percent of the wines are made in co-operative wineries, with a balance of independent wineries. Soils vary from hard limestone to Tertiary sediment and scree littered with pebbles. The climate is Mediterranean although it enjoys the moderating influence of Mont Ventoux (harsher winters, wetter summers and cooler nights). Mont Ventoux, which reaches a peak at 1,912 metres, though also the Dentelles de Montmirail and Monts du Vaucluse mountain ranges provide a buffer to the Mistral wind. The varietal range is typical of the Rhône. Grenache noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Carignan, Counoise, Picpoul noir… for the reds. Clairette, Bourboulenc, Grenache blanc and Roussanne for the whites.

Grape varieties: Vins rouges, rosés : renache noir, syrah, mourvèdre, cinsault, carignan, terret noir, counoise, muscardin, vaccarèse, camarèse, calitor, picpoul noir . Vins blancs secs : clairette, bourboulenc, rouss

The wines of this appellation

although they are well-constituted, red Côtes du Ventoux tend to be less powerful than neighbouring Côtes du Rhône. They boast characteristic fruit (blackcurrant, raspberry) and freshness, particularly in their youth. Fragrances of flowers and spices (pepper, liquorice) are also present. They are served with meat in a sauce, sophisticated dishes with truffles and game. The rosés display a hue ranging from pink with purple tints to salmon-pink. They boast fragrances of fresh fruit and white flowers. On the palate, they are elegant and fruity. The white wines, which are still made on a boutique scale, display an attractive pale yellow hue with greenish tints. They are lively, fresh and elegant with fragrances of flowers and citrus fruit. Try with shellfish or grilled fish.