Viniou Reviews
Domaine La Verrière's 2024 Ventoux AOC red is a classic southern Rhône blend, likely composed mainly of Grenache, Syrah, and perhaps a touch of Mourvèdre or Carignan. The wine is fermented and aged in either stainless steel or large, neutral vats to preserve freshness and the vibrant character of the fruit, reflecting a modern approach to Rhône winemaking. The terroir of Ventoux is especially notable for its altitude; vineyards sit on the slopes of Mont Ventoux, benefitting from cooler nights, which help the grapes retain acidity and produce wines with both freshness and depth of flavour. In the glass, you can anticipate a wine with juicy red fruits, black pepper, subtle herbal notes reminiscent of garrigue, and gentle tannins supporting a lively, medium-bodied palate.
The Ventoux region, located in the southernmost part of the Rhône Valley, has a long and proud viticultural history; its proximity to Provence affords it a generous Mediterranean climate, but the elevation of the vineyards introduces an extra layer of finesse not always found in southern Rhône reds. The soils here are varied, with limestone and clay giving complexity and backbone to the wines. This is an area where sun-drenched days are tempered by cooling mistral winds and nighttime breezes from the mountains, creating ideal conditions for balanced, aromatic reds.
Pair this Ventoux with dishes that echo the rustic, sun-drenched character of the region. Think grilled lamb cutlets with herbes de Provence, ratatouille, or daube provençale—the region’s signature slow-cooked beef stew. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean grilled vegetables or a hearty chickpea and sausage casserole, making it a versatile companion for both meat and vegetarian dishes.
Serve Domaine La Verrière Ventoux AOC 2024 slightly cool, ideally at 15-17°C. This range will highlight the brightness of the fruit and the wine’s aromatic complexity, while keeping tannins supple and unobtrusive. Decanting is optional for such a young wine but may help to open up the bouquet if served soon after release.
