Crisp whites and rosés are passé. This year major trend? Chilled red wines. One of the best regions for easy drinking, and unpretentious red wines are the French regions: Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages, AOC.
Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grape varieties grow well in this region and provide a combination of fruit forward, soft tannins, and spiced characteristics. When served at cooler temperatures, their aromatic profiles really shine.
And, they make food friendly pairings with everything from grilled and roasted meat and vegetables to charcuterie boards, and spiced dishes. Chill for twenty minutes before serving (between 14-16C).
Spotlight on Reds
Maison Gabriel Meffre AOC Côtes du Rhône Red, 2023
Grenache Noir, Syrah
Elegant medium-bodied red with ripe fruit, silky tannins, and spicy finish. A late harvest due to a summer heatwave resulted in concentrated fruit with an aromatic profile.
Brotte Esprit AOC Côtes du Rhône Red, 2022
Grenache Noir, Syrah
Intense dark purple in the glass. Earthy aromas with spice, pepper, and licorice. Soft tannins, the result of ageing in 100-year-old oak foudre (wooden vats) and concrete vats for 6 months.
Les Cassagnes de la Nerthe AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages 2021
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
Produced by one of the historic founding properties of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Limestone and sandy soil contribute to graphite notes with a nice balance of black fruit and palate-pleasing tannin with a long finish.
This original article first appeared in the FALL 2025 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
Get More Inspiration
from City Style and Living
