Walls: exploring the three Vs of the Southern Rhône
Elegance with an easy-going drinkability...
The Rhône Valley runs south from Lyon to the Rhône Delta, a length of approximately 150 miles.
It is divided stylistically and geographically into northern and southern parts, the former much smaller and more focussed in design, while the latter is much larger and accommodates a wider range of grape varieties.
In the north, Syrah dominates in red wine, while Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne are grown for white wines.
In the south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famous for allowing 22 varieties, ranging from Grenache and Syrah to Picpoul, Picardan and Terret Noir.
There’s a lot of variation, but in other southern appellations a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre might be considered the most typical – even giving birth to the Australian ‘GSM’ style.
Elegance with an easy-going drinkability...
The 2018s are succulent, juicy and fresh and are easy to enjoy...
Drinkable and age-worthy wines worth seeking out...
There is fascinating diversity among the Southern Rhône's white wines despite only making up 4% of production
Top-scoring wines from Champagne to the Rhône...
Dominated by Châteauneuf-du-Pape at its heart, but there are 40 more appellations to explore...
Matt Walls examines seven mature vintages of Gigondas wines and reports on what is drinking well now and what should be kept cellared for a little while longer.
Matt Walls highlights 10 of his favourite Rhône producers...
Matt Walls shines the light on this under-the-radar producer, Domaine Burgaud.
Matt Walls explores Syrah's guises from around the world...
A hidden gem in the southern Rhône...
Matt Walls finds an approachable vintage that’s largely drinkable now with a number of delicious wines he'd be happy to have in the cellar.
Matt Walls visits the Henri Bonneau estate to meet the new owners...
Matt Walls looks back on his two year research project for his latest book Wines of the Rhone, and the trials and tribulations of moving his family to France...
There are some superb wines in this Top 25
There's value to be found in 2019 if you know where to look