Domaines Et Chateaux - Three Rhône Wines

Three Domaines Et Chateaux Rhône Wines - available from Tesco

Rhône wines provide Old World sophistication with New World fruit ripeness - expressive yet nuanced and complex, they appeal to both head and heart.

Here are three very classy and enjoyable Rhônes from Domaines Et Chateaux, all made by family-run wineries; there is a white and two reds. They are all well-made, food-friendly and improve with a bit of aeration.

Domaine Bariol 2016, Côtes du Rhône (£9) based in Valreas, a blend of Marsanne and Viognier; floral with ripe peach, apricot and fresh citrus fruit. Waxy and substantial with toasty leesiness and good underpinnings.

Domaine L'Autrandine 2015, Côtes du Rhône Villages (£9) baked red fruits and damsons with violets, spice with some earthiness; quite big and alcoholic yet fresh with very fine tannins.

Match with roast red meat, especially lamb. 

Domaine de la Combe Dieu 2016, Rasteau (£12) GSM+C blend, blackberries, plums and violets with black pepper, liquorice, spice and cool mint. Substantial, supple and harmonious with fine tannins. Will age.

Good.

Match with a rich lamb stew, roast meats or hard yellow cheeses.