# Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge (2023)

- **Producer:** M. Chapoutier
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Marselan
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, violet, blackcurrant, white pepper, red cherry, garrigue, black plum

## About this wine

The Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge 2023 is a red wine from the Rhône Valley, France, produced by Maison M. Chapoutier. The name 'Belleruche' translates to 'beautiful beehive,' reflecting the producer's commitment to sustainable vineyards where bees are a visible part of the ecosystem. This wine is a representative example of the Côtes-du-Rhône appellation, known for its approachable and generous character. M. Chapoutier is one of the oldest wine estates in the region, with a legacy dating back to 1808, and its modern reputation is influenced by Michel Chapoutier's innovative approach. The wine is a blend primarily of Grenache and Syrah, often with a touch of Marselan, drawing from vineyards across the Southern Rhône departments. It is recognized for its consistent quality and value, making it a reliable choice for everyday enjoyment.

## Interesting facts

- 'Belleruche' translates to 'beautiful beehive,' inspired by the sustainable vineyards.
- Chapoutier is one of the oldest wine companies in the Rhône Valley, founded in 1808.
- This wine often blends grapes from both the left and right banks of the Rhône River.
- It's known for its excellent value and consistent quality.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and ripe tannins are well-suited to complement the protein in red meats, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to richer dishes. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those found in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge 2023 begins with total destemming of the grapes. Vinification occurs in concrete and stainless steel tanks over a period of 3 to 4 weeks. Daily pumping over operations are employed to facilitate the extraction of color, aromas, and tannins. Fermentation temperatures are regulated, typically starting around 28°C and rising to 30-33°C towards the end to aid tannin polymerization. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 6 months in concrete vats and stainless steel tanks, with a focus on preserving fruit-forward characteristics as oak aging is generally avoided. Grapes are harvested at phenolic maturity, sometimes at night to maintain aromatic integrity.