Arc du Rhône is named after the classified group of villages which together line up to form a geographical arc across the valley of the southern Rhône known locally as the ‘arc of gold’. This collection of wines showcases the classic varieties and blend from this world-famous region! Here the vineyards are mostly chalky-clay soil with a heavy overlay of rounded limestone pebbles (locally called galets roulés). The stones absorb the sunlight heat during the day and slowly radiate it out overnight, leading to healthy ripe grapes that are always filled with sweet fruit flavours.
The vinous symphony here is orchestrated by winemaker Julien Dugas. After completing six years of study in oenology and viticulture in the town of Orange (close to Chateauneuf-du-Pape) and with his diploma in his pocket, Dugas was ready to begin his career as a winemaker, with his eye firmly set on the south of France. This career has involved making wine in many of the key villages and vineyards of the Southern Rhône, including the famous Vacqueyras and Châteauneuf-du-Pape (at Domaine Vieux Télégraphe), as well as further afield in South Africa.
These days he lends his local knowledge and impeccable work ethic to the Arc du Rhône mission, blending the local varieties into rustic yet soulful wines that really display a sense of place. His winemaking hand is deft and the results speak for themselves – a great expression of the region.
This mature Côtes du Rhône Villages is typically full-flavoured, with brambly fruits from the Grenache and then followed with plenty of savoury spice on the finish. There’s no oak used in this wine, but it has a richness and a depth all of its own. The Syrah that is used to blend in adds a lovely black pepper and sage component to the wine, and it finishes fresh and juicy.
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