Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOCGrenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, VaccareseFounded 1882Chateauneuf-du-Pape
One of CdP's most traditional domaines, the Michel family producing classically-structured Grenache-dominant reds of great consistency.
Tasting: By appointment at the estate in Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Signature wines: Le Vieux Donjon Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Tavel AOC, Lirac AOC, Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOCGrenache, Clairette, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Picpoul, Grenache Blanc, BourboulencFounded 1986ECOCERTTavel
Tavel domaine producing the reference rose of the appellation, the Dame Rousse, alongside Lirac red and white and a Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
Tasting: Tasting room open at the domaine in Tavel; appointment preferred
Signature wines: Domaine de la Mordoree La Dame Rousse Tavel, Domaine de la Mordoree La Reine des Bois Lirac Rouge
Tip: La Dame Rousse is the reference Tavel rose; structured enough to age 3-5 years.
Gigondas AOCGrenache, Syrah, MourvedreFounded 1874Biodynamic PracticingECOCERTGigondas
Historic Gigondas estate with old-vine parcels across the Dentelles de Montmirail producing structured, spice-laden reds.
Tasting: Tasting room open at the domaine in Gigondas
Signature wines: Domaine Santa Duc Gigondas, Domaine Santa Duc Gigondas Prestige des Hautes Garrigues
Tip: Aux Relagnes is the classic Gigondas cuvee; Hautes Garrigues is the prestige single-vineyard bottling.
Gigondas AOCGrenache, Syrah, MourvedreFounded 1875Gigondas
One of Gigondas's most respected traditional estates, producing Grenache-dominant reds from old vines on clay-limestone slopes.
Tasting: Tasting room at the domaine; open weekdays
Signature wines: Domaine Raspail-Ay Gigondas
Gigondas AOCGrenache, Syrah, MourvedreFounded 1416ECOCERTGigondas
Gigondas estate with recorded winemaking history to the 15th century, run by Louis Barruol as both domaine and Southern Rhone negociant.
Tasting: Tasting room open at the chateau; appointment recommended
Signature wines: Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas, Chateau de Saint Cosme Le Claux
Tip: The estate occupies the hillside above the village with Roman-era cellars carved from the rock.
Rasteau AOC, Rasteau VDN AOCGrenache, Syrah, MourvedreFounded 1979Rasteau
Rasteau family domaine producing both the dry appellation red and the traditional Rasteau vin doux naturel (VDN), one of the few maintaining this fortified wine tradition.
Tasting: Tasting room open at the domaine in Rasteau
Signature wines: Domaine La Soumade Rasteau Cuvee Confiance, Domaine La Soumade Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel
Tip: The Rasteau VDN is a fortified Grenache in Rancio style; a disappearing tradition well worth seeking out.