Rhone Valley from Cote Rotie to Chateauneuf du Pape - BRIGHTON

We're off to the Rhone Valley in the latest of our Fine Wine adventures. The Rhone Valley is one of France's best value regions when it comes to fine wine as it flies under the radar compared to Burgundy and Bordeaux and is correspondingly less expensive. The northern Rhone is the spiritual home of Syrah. The moderate continental climate means that winemakers plant on steep south facing slopes to get the right balance between ripe fruit and the natural acidity and tannin of the grape. These wines have the ability to develop over 15-20 years. We'll be exploring the reds from Cote Rotie, Cornas, St Joseph and Crozes Hermitage and whites from the famous appellation of Condrieu and the lesser known region of Saint-Peray. The southern Rhone is flatter, hotter and windier. Grenache is king in this more mediterranean climate although Syrah, Mourvedre and a host of other grapes are often in the blend. Look out for reds from Cotes du Rhone Villages, Cairanne, Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Chateauneuf du Pape. If you are wine enthusaist with an interest in the Rhone, Syrah / Shiraz and Chateauneuf du Pape this is a great opportunity to try some excellent wines at one tasting.