This post is sponsored by Rhone Valley Wines. Add a classy touch to your happy hour at home with rosés, whites and reds from France’s Rhone Valley.
Who says happy hour has to happen at a sleazy bar? With a bit of ambition, happy hour can happen at home — and it can be classy, too. The key is choosing the right spirit, which brings us to France’s Rhône Valley.
This region has been a wine mecca since ancient times, producing some of the most coveted wines on the planet. The north is known primarily for its Syrah, while the south is dominated by Grenache.
But too often, the Rhône Valley is viewed primarily as a producer of reds — a good region, a reliable region, but not necessarily a diverse one. Here’s the thing about the Rhône though. It’s huge, with a multifacted landscape and complex soil. In addition to its bold reds, the Rhône also produces a stunning array of rosés and whites.
A savvy wine connoisseur will soon discover that the Rhône Valley offers some of the best value of any wine region anywhere.
Herewith, a happy-hour tasting tour of the region’s diversity. The best part? These quality wines cost will suit any budget.
1. Rosés
Ogier Cotes du Ventoux Rose 2013, $12.95
Dry, citrusy and slightly herbaceous, this fascinating rosé has a nose of grapefruit, currants and raspberry, with a bright and clean acidity. This is about as refreshing as rosés come.
Château d'Aquéria Tavel, $21.95
Everything that a good rosé should be: dry, robust, bright and floral, with notes of citrus and fresh berries. Best of all, it’s tons of fun.
2. Whites
Domaine de la Janasse Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2014, $21.95
From the sandy soils of Châteauneuf Du-Pape comes this dry and zesty blend of Grenache, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Viognier and Roussanne. A full mouthfeel, bursting with notes of apple, apricot and peach.
Marrenon Doria Luberon 2012, $17.95
A blend of Vermentino and Grenache Blanc, this high-value wine is fruity, chalky and clean on the palate. Complex, extra dry and a surefire crowd-pleaser.
3. Reds
M. Chapoutier Petite Ruche Crozes-Hermitage 2012, $24.95
Dry and multifaceted, redolent of ripe black cherries. Dark and lustrous with just a hint of savouriness. A stunning product of the Rhône Valley.
Les Amouriers Signature Vacqueyras 2012, $26.95
It’s not often you’ll find a wine this bold and complex at this price point. A full-bodied, luxurious and smoky blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, brimming with plum and lavender.
Famille Perrin Les Cornuds Vinsobres 2013, $17.95
Peppery and earthy with bursts of dark fruit, including raspberry, plum and cherry. Elegant, floral and medium-bodied with a long finish. Huge value.
Domaine Eric & Joel Durand Empreintes Cornas 2012, $36.95
Herbal with bright cherry notes. Cranberry, licorice, with lots of depth. Loaded with texture. Meaty and intensely pleasurable.
