Dauvergne et Ranvier, ‘15 Cépages’, 2023, Côtes-du-Rhône (AOC)

'One-Liner'
A dark, generous Côtes-du-Rhône with black fruit, peppery spice and a lovely dusty finish.

Tasting Note
Deep garnet in the glass. The nose leans into cherry, blackcurrant and plum, followed by violet and liquorice. On the palate it is full and rounded, with ripe dark fruit, present but balanced tannins, and a fresh line that keeps the wine lively rather than heavy.

Country: France
Region: Rhone
Sub-Region: n/a
Grape(s): Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Brun Argenté, Caladoc, Carignan, Cinsault, Counoise, Couston, Marselan, Muscardin, Piquepoul Noir, Terret Noir, Clairette Rose, Grenache Gris
ABV: 14%
Friendly: Biodynamic

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Dauvergne et Ranvier was founded in 2004 by François Dauvergne and Jean-François Ranvier, and the project has always been built around Rhône blending rather than estate dogma. That suits this bottle perfectly. The idea of bringing together all fifteen authorised grapes of Côtes-du-Rhône could easily feel gimmicky, but here it feels more like a celebration of the appellation at its broadest and most expressive. The result is exactly what good southern Rhône should be – ripe, spicy, generous and full of character, but still properly held together.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Braised lamb with rosemary and garlic
- Vegetarian: Roast aubergine with spiced tomatoes and whipped feta
- Vegan: Tomato, lentil and rosemary stew with crusty bread