Southern Rhône

**Southern Rhône** ... — the broad, sun-baked lower section of France's Rhône Valley, spreading out around Avignon and Orange. It is the volume heart of the Rhône and home to some of its most famous appellations. **Wines & grapes** — Reds are typically blends led by Grenache, supported by Syrah, Mourvèdre and other varieties. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the flagship, alongside Gigondas, Vacqueyras and the vast Côtes du Rhône; the region also makes rosé (notably nearby Tavel) and some whites. **Character** — The climate is warmer and drier than the north, swept by the fierce Mistral wind, and famous sites are covered in large rounded stones (galets) that retain heat. The reds are generous and warming, with ripe red-fruit and garrigue-herb character. **Good to know** — Châteauneuf-du-Pape permits an unusually wide roster of grape varieties in its blends.

Wines

• Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape — Château de Beaucastel (Famille Perrin)
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape — Domaine de la Janasse
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape — Les Courlandes
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape — Clefs des Papes
• Gigondas Romane Machotte — Pierre Amadieu