Vintage Winos
Vintage Vinos Wines of the Côtes du Rhône
The tasting was hosted by Brian and Chriss S. on January 14, 2026. The theme was to taste some wines from different regions of the Côtes du Rhône.
The evening started with a small sampling of Château de Beaucastel’s Coudoulet de Beaucastel Côtes du Rhône blanc 2023. This is a blend of Bourboulenc, Marsanne, Viognier and Clairette grapes. The winery is located between Avignon and Orange. A dry and well-balanced wine with citrus aromas.
The tasting then proceeded with the tasting of three red wines comparing them before and after with a food pairing.
- Jl Chave Offerus Saint Joseph 2021 – A 100% Syrah from the northern Rhone St Joseph region.
- Louis Bernard Chateauneuf du Pape 2022 From the Chateauneuf du Pape region. This is considered a ‘GSM’ blend. Which is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre grapes.
- Cotes Du Rhone Halos de Jupiter 2023 This is also a ‘GSM’ blend from the southern Rhone region, Costieres de Nimes.
Although two of the wines are a ‘GSM’ blend, the quantities or percentage of each grape varies depending on the winery. The Chateauneuf Du Pape was aged in Stainless tanks while the Halos de Jupiter was aged in Concrete fermenters. Different processes, achieving slightly different results as per the Winemakers preferences.
Each of the participants prepared a dish indicative of the region and selected to pair with the wines. The results were outstanding, highlighting the importance of food pairing and how it affects the taste of the wine.
A great evening, lots of conversation and laughter, ending when the last drop of wine was consumed. Funny that!
submitted by Brian Steane
