Southern Rhône Villages Case

Sweet, ripe fruit flavours abound in this fabulous 2020. Sainte-Anne was among the first to plant the mourvèdre grape successfully here. Modestly priced yet capable of achieving great complexity with age. Drink from 2024 to 2033. 14%

Domaine Sainte-Anne is one of the remarkable estates in the southern Rhône. The Stenmaiers, originally from Burgundy, were pioneers, introducing both syrah and mourvèdre to the area. Both are used here, though the majority is grenache. Full-flavoured and rich with lovely soft fruit, made from 40-year-old vines.

Domaine de Pierredon makes its wines at the local co-operative in Estezargues and works organically in their vineyards. Coming from the Signargues area, this is a delicious and sumptuous red that is filled with red plum, ripe cherries and hints of garrigue and spice. Pairs perfectly with steak, aubergine parmigiana and barbecued meats.

This grenache, syrah and mourvedre is from a selection of old vines from this family domaine. Planted at 400-metres altitude in the Valreas region of the southern Rhone, its resulting wines are juicy, fresh and with lots of character and charm. With a bramble perfume, there is spice and supple tannins. A wine that opens up in the glass ad can be enjoyed with roast lamb and tagine.

Based off a dirt road in the hills, a stone's throw away from Séguret, one of France's most picturesque villages, this truly exciting estate is run by the talented Pablo Höcht. His German artist parents bought the property and having studied engineering he came to the area wanting to make wine. He worked at Château de St Cosme for several years until he decided to buy some more vineyards and fully commit to his own domaine. Working entirely organically and biodynamically, this red is mainly from a plot close to Roaix. There are so many layers in this wine with brambles, tapenade and liquorice with structure and concentration, but wonderfully fresh and lively. It is a wine with a real sense of place.

Predominately grenache with some syrah and carignan, and largely from the Ventabren mountain. The altitude gives a generous freshness to this full-bodied and spicy red. This charming and voluptuous wine is from an estate worth following. Drink from 2026 to 2030. 14%