The wonderful Rhone Valley, a pocket journey

Ever driven down a Wine Menu? I have and it is such fun! There are in the Wine World a number of places that really can be classed as 'Classic'. Just such is the beautiful Rhone Valley' which stretches from Lyon in the north to Marseille in the south with a short gap in the middle where you find Montélimar which is great for its nougat.

Dating back to the early Middle Ages as far as wine production is concerned, it became famous once The Pope took up residence in Avignon in 13th Century. It covers many different terrains with different styles of grape and wines to match alongside some specialities of foods and of course the famous Herbs de Provence.

In the north the hills of the Cote Rôtie are spectacular and along the valley the names of the famous wine producers are painted on the hillside proclaiming their vineyards and telling the world.

The grape varieties are overseen could well be overshadowed by Syrah. Its bold, rich and powerful character dominating much of the region and in the north it is the only ref variety allowed at all. However the lovely white Viognier is fragrant and has superb mineral qualities and can, when just 4 or 5% is added to Syrah 'tame the beast' whilst it matures and develops into the 'king of the region' it is demands.

As you travel south the varieties are mostly blended and in the case of that famous wine red Châteauneuf-du-Pape they can use as many as 13 different in one 'Cuvee' so you can see why the character and quality can vary so much. White Châteauneuf is a joy. Made from Marsanne, Viognier and Rousanne it can be like sultanas and apricots with a finish of stoned fruits, delicious.

One of the best known producers of the day is Michel Chapoutier whose company makes many wines using organic and even bio-dynamic methods. Over many years he has proved you do not need to take, take, take but by careful thoughts and actions one can be in harmony with the land and environment. A popular though today but year ago many scoffed at Michel, how he must be laughing now.

To finish this article I must tell you of Muscat Beaume de Venise. A fabulous bottling of sunshine, grape and honey, all at the same time. I love the one by Vidal-Fleury in it distinctive long bottle and seemingly hand-written label. We used to call them mistela but today they are called 'fortified'. During the fermentation of rich, full to bursting Muscat grapes a simple 'grape spirit' [young brandy to you and me] is added which stops the fermentation and so keeps that fresh, luscious, grapey taste so fantastic with fresh fruit, blue cheese or even chocolate.

If you wish to see the Rhône for real you can drive, take the TGV train or even fly into Lyon and out of Marseille like I did 2 years ago when I went there with my dear chums Peter and Jackie. My, what a super few days that was! The countryside un-surpassed with fields of lavender throwing their perfume into the air, the restaurants superb and then Marseille, delightful, where we had a simply tremendous and classic lunch - yes, that word again!

If you want a private, escorted visit to any wine region of your choice do get in touch - andrewh@georgehill.co.uk

www.georgehill.co.uk