The Specifics of Côtes du Rhône Blanc.

Where is Côtes du Rhône Blanc wine produced?

Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a wine that deserves to be highlighted for its diversity and exceptional aromatic richness. Originating from a prestigious vineyard that stretches along the Rhône River across six departments, this wine represents about 6% of the total production of the Côtes du Rhône AOC. It draws its essence from emblematic grape varieties of the region, which differ between the north and south of the appellation area.

Grape Varieties of Côtes du Rhône in the North

In the northern part of the Rhône Valley, main grape varieties such as roussanne, marsanne, and viognier play a crucial role. Roussanne brings finesse and elegance with its distinctive floral notes. Marsanne enriches the wine by providing richness, power, and excellent aging potential. Viognier, on the other hand, offers dry and velvety wines, marked by subtle aromas of yellow fruits and fresh flowers.

Grape Varieties of Côtes du Rhône in the South

Towards the south, Côtes du Rhône Blanc benefits from the generosity of grenache blanc, clairette, bourboulenc, and viognier. Grenache blanc provides roundness and generosity, with hints of white-fleshed fruits. Clairette adds freshness, acidity, and aromas of citrus and white flowers. Bourboulenc brings liveliness, minerality, and notes of almond and fennel, while viognier enriches the wine with its fragrance and notes of apricot and peach.

The Côtes du Rhône Blanc appellation and blending rules

To be labeled with the appellation Côtes du Rhône Blanc, a wine must be made from at least 80% of these main grape varieties, with the remaining 20% possibly including secondary varieties such as piquepoul blanc or ugni blanc. Diverse blends allow for expressing the full complexity and typicality of the terroir.

What makes Côtes du Rhône Blanc unique?

Côtes du Rhône Blanc stands out with its pale yellow color with green or golden reflections, its intense and elegant nose of white flowers, citrus, yellow or exotic fruits, spices, or honey. In the mouth, it is ample and harmonious, fresh and fruity, with a sometimes slightly bitter finish. It can be enjoyed young or after a few years of aging, depending on the cuvées.

This wine is incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with aperitifs, seafood, grilled or sauced fish, cheeses, tarts, composed salads, or even exotic dishes. Côtes du Rhône Blanc is an invitation to discover the secrets of an exceptional wine region, celebrating the freshest terroirs and the finesse of white wines.

How to make an excellent Côtes du Rhône Blanc wine?

A good Côtes du Rhône Blanc wine is the result of meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar. Firstly, it is necessary to choose the most suitable plots for each grape variety, based on the soil, climate, and exposure. Then, the grapes must be harvested at optimal ripeness, with a preference for morning harvests to preserve the freshness of the berries. The grape varieties must then be vinified separately, adapting techniques according to the characteristics of each variety. Finally, the final blend must be made while respecting the balance between the different aromas, flavors, and textures of the wines.

Organoleptic Profile

Côtes du Rhône Blanc is characterized by a pale yellow color with green or golden reflections, an intense and elegant nose with notes of white flowers, citrus, yellow or exotic fruits, spices, or honey, a full and harmonious mouth, fresh and fruity, sometimes slightly bitter in the finish. It can be enjoyed young or after a few years of aging depending on the cuvées.

Food and Wine Pairings

Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a versatile wine that can accompany an entire meal, from appetizers to dessert. It pairs well with seafood, grilled or sauced fish, fresh or aged cheeses, savory or sweet tarts, composed salads, or exotic dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own for pleasure.

Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a wine that reveals the secrets of a rich and varied wine region, highlighting the freshest terroirs and emphasizing white wines. It is a wine to discover without delay for its gustatory qualities and excellent value for money.

Curious to discover a good Côtes du Rhône Blanc wine yourself?

Come and taste it at Domaine Terra in Saint-Alexandre, Thionville, or order it directly online from our catalog!