Wines Costières de Nîmes Domaine Des Armassons - Les Terres Sauvages - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Des Armassons’ Cuvée Les Terres Sauvages Blanc 2024 originates from the sun-kissed southern reaches of the Rhône Valley, within the Costières-de-Nîmes AOC. This white wine is typically crafted from an expressive blend that may include Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, and sometimes Viognier, all renowned varietals in this region. The 2024 vintage, still youthful, captures the vibrancy of the grape harvest, offering freshness and vivacity. The terroir here is marked by the iconic galets roulés—smooth, heat-retaining stones on the ancient river dirts—along with a Mediterranean climate that ensures sun-drenched grapes tempered by cooling winds from the nearby Camargue. Vinification emphasises preservation of primary fruit aromas, with cool fermentation in stainless steel or concrete to maintain a fresh, aromatic profile.

Costières de Nîmes stands as the southernmost AOC of the Rhône, bordering Languedoc yet deeply rooted in Rhône traditions. The region is bathed in sunshine with marked diurnal differences; the stony soils, rich in iron and alluvial deposits, encourage flavour complexity and balance in the wines. The area boasts a history stretching to Roman times, and today is celebrated for producing whites of aromatic intensity, zesty acidity, and an undercurrent of salinity reflecting its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

With its lively demeanour and subtle minerality, this white wine finds harmony alongside seafood—think grilled sea bream or a prawn and fennel salad. It also shines with regional specialties such as brandade de morue (salt cod purée) or a poultry dish dressed with tapenade. Soft goats’ cheese from the Cévennes or a simple courgette tart make excellent vegetarian companions.

To fully appreciate the aromatic bouquet and crisp structure, serve the wine chilled at 8-10°C. In its youth, enjoy its exuberant freshness, but don’t hesitate to let it open in the glass for a few moments, allowing delicate floral and citrus notes to unfold with elegance.