# Domaine Grande Bellane Côtes du Rhône Rouge (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine Grande Bellane
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, cherry, plum, black pepper, liquorice

## About this wine

Founded in 1919 when Raoul Couston converted a family broom-making workshop in Valréas into a winemaking cellar after World War I, Domaine Grande Bellane is today managed by fifth-generation winemakers Lionel and Damien Marres. Situated in an enclave of Valréas in the Southern Rhône Valley at elevations up to 430 meters, the estate benefits from cool high-altitude nights and the Mistral wind, promoting a long and balanced ripening cycle across its certified organic vineyards.

## Interesting facts

- Domaine Grande Bellane was converted from a family broom-making workshop into a winery in 1919 after WWI.
- Located at up to 430 meters altitude in Valréas, it features some of the highest elevation vineyards in the Southern Rhône.
- The estate has practiced certified organic farming for over 30 years without synthetic pesticides or herbicides.

## Food pairing

The supple tannins and vibrant acidity of this Southern Rhône red pair seamlessly with rich, savory proteins like grilled lamb and beef, as well as earthy slow-cooked stews. The fresh acidity cuts through richness while the bright fruit notes harmonize with Mediterranean herbs.

## Wine making process

Grapes are harvested parcel by parcel based on maturity to ensure natural acidity. Fruit is fully destemmed and gently crushed before undergoing fermentation with native yeasts in temperature-controlled vessels (18°C–28°C) over approximately two weeks. Fermentation and aging take place exclusively in stainless steel and concrete vats to preserve primary fruit purity without oak contact. The process is certified organic and vegan with minimal added sulfur.