Filling in the Blanc: Discovering the Whites of Cotes du Rhone
Vineyards of M.Chapoutier, Cotes du Rhone
A closer look at the white wines redefining one of France’s most iconic regions.
Charming, savoury, and warming red blends have been the focal point for the Cotes du Rhone wine region for quite some time. From Cornas to Chateau-Neuf-de-Pape the quality of wines produced across the Rhone Valley is undeniable. Recently, thanks to a growing white wine trend for modern palates, there has been a brighter spotlight shed on the white wines from Rhone Valley. Unique grapes that do seemingly well in the sunny heat of the Rhone Valley like Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne are being welcomed as full-bodied white wine alternatives, and because of this, Rhone white wines are finding a strong foothold in today’s market.
Cotes du Rhone AOC Blanc: Quality in Crus
The majority of Northern Rhone is red wine crafted using solely Syrah. However, some Crus permit white wines made with Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier in the north, while the southern crus allow several other white varieties. White Rhone cru wines are a sure way to explore quality fine wines from the region as the grape growth and wine making process are meticulous and true to terroir.
Try:
Croix de Chabot Saint-Joseph AOC 2023
Only 10% of the wines made in the Saint-Joseph AOC are white, but they shouldn’t be overlooked. Crafted with Marsanne and Roussanne, the white wines produced in this cru display exceptional quality and longevity.
This wine is a collab between Yannick Alléno & Michel Chapoutier coming from Saint-Joseph AOC, a Northern Cru of the Rhone Valley. A full-bodied white wine that is 100% Marsanne, with notes of honey, white flowers and mango. A fresh and luxuriously smooth mouthfeel that persists on a long finish. Pair it with cordon bleu.
Cave de Tain Nobles Rives Saint-Peray 2023
Saint-Peray AOC is a Northern Cru that is 100% white wine. The grapes here are Marsanne and Roussanne and can be made in a still or sparkling style.
This bottle is a Marsanne and Roussanne blend by Cave de Tain grown on their diverse clay, limestone and granite soils, all bringing unique characteristics to this sustainably grown wine. Honey and green mango aromas are mirrored on a full, oily textured palate. A silky mouthfeel that’s lifted with bright acidity derived from the cool valley nights sing in perfect harmony towards a long finish. There’s a complexity that will surely turn from bright and fresh to savoury and luxurious with some bottle age. Pair it with seafood alfredo.
Bord Elegance Laudun Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Blanc 2024
Laudun became recognized as a Southern Rhone Cru in 2024. This southern cru white Rhone blend consists of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Viognier that come together to unfold a straight-laced, focused wine. Honey and white flower notes can be experienced on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied, with a lip-smacking finish. Pair this one with a warm pecan and goat cheese salad.
The Warmer Side of White: Exploring Southern Rhone Styles
As we move south on the map, Cotes du Rhone wine typically increases in ripeness and fuller-bodied styles as it moves away from the northern crisp, floral and herbaceous whites. Rich wines shine with weightier mouthfeel and oily textures and depending on the grapes being used, riper, with tropical fruit notes.
Cotes du Rhone Blanc Belleruche Chapoutier
This is a full-bodied, dry wine made with Grenache Blanc from the Cotes du Rhone, France. It offers notes of raw honey, pineapple and wheat grains within a waxy frame. Savoury, with low acid. White mulberry, parsnip and almond skin contribute depth with a slight bite on a long finish. Pair with burrata and tomato or autumn root vegetables.
This white Rhone blend consists of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Viognier that come together to unfold a straight-laced, focused wine. Honey and white flower notes can be experienced on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied, with a lip-smacking finish. Pair this one with a warm pecan and goat cheese salad.
Domaine de la Vidaliere Blanc Millesime 2024 AOP Cotes du Rhone
This Rhone Blanc is created with Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, and Rolle and undergoes concrete vat fermentation. On the nose, peach, melon and cantaloupe aromas persist towards a creamy mouthfeel. Prominent peach notes and an energetic frequency ring throughout the palate, with a dab of almond skin on the finish. Pair with aged cheddar or sole.
Age-worthy Whites: Rhône’s Secret Weapon
With several of the region’s whites being built to last, or in the very least to fill in the blank of today’s desired wine profiles, the resurgence of this site-specific style might just be Rhone’s ace up the sleeve. Whether the wine calls for cellar time to evolve in the bottle, or to be popped immediately and enjoyed in its youth, one thing is for certain - Rhone whites are definitely worth a second pour.