Southern Rhône Shines for Summer Reds
Southern Rhône reds are the essence of summer flavor. One of my favorite wine categories overall, these bold-yet-balanced wines are tailor-made for outdoor gatherings and anything hot off the grill. There’s something magical about the way ripe, sun-drenched fruit meets savory spice—it pairs effortlessly with smoky, charred flavors.
Burgers or sausages? Reach for a juicy Côtes-du-Rhône.
Grilled ribeye? A powerful Châteauneuf-du-Pape rises to the occasion.
Smoked ribs or pork shoulder? Gigondas delivers with its depth and spice.
Fire, smoke, and Rhône reds—a summer trio that never misses.
2021 Mas de Sainte Croix "Tendresse d'un Climat" Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages Valréas $12.99 91JS Mas de Sainte Croix’s “Tendresse” bottling beautifully showcases the strengths of Valréas. Higher-altitude fruit, cooling Mistral winds, and a gentle winemaking hand from vigneron Julien Coipel result in a wine that’s both elegant and refined. A blend of Grenache and Syrah, Tendresse reflects its northern location with a spicier, more aromatic profile. Notes of red raspberry, tobacco, and peppery spice take the stage, creating a lifted, spice-driven style that feels both timeless and fresh. With its graceful structure and accessible price point, few wines on our shelves will overperform as well as this at any social gathering.
2022 Domaine de la Cote de l'Ange Châteauneuf-du-Pape $29.99 93RP 93JS The 2022 Cote de l'Ange is a sumptuous and revealing Châteauneuf. It opens with notes of kirsch, wild strawberries, fig jam, and roasted earth. Full-bodied and silky, the wine lingers on the palate. Showing the weight and ripeness of the 2022 vintage, this is no shy wine so enjoy it with big meaty dishes or some good, aged cheeses. Just give this baby a quick decant, and the party is ready to start!
2020 Domaine Santa Duc "Les Hautes Garrigues" Gigondas $34.99 96WE 95JS 95WS The Hautes Garrigue refers to the high forested slopes surrounding the village of Gigondas. Not long ago, Santa Duc was known for a bold, extroverted winemaking style. In recent years, however, the estate has embraced a more restrained approach—one that better highlights the region’s inherent strengths. Today, the wines offer beautifully savory and spicy aromatics that complement the classic Rhône fruit profile. A healthy dose of Mourvèdre brings those savory elements to the forefront, with notes of saddle leather, cardamom, and pipe tobacco. Grenache still lends its signature touch—black cherry, strawberry compote, and a hint of white pepper. Together, these grapes form a harmonious whole, showcasing the nuanced complexity that continues to make Gigondas my favorite of the Southern Rhône crus.
- Keith Mabry, K&L Rhône Valley Wine Buyer