L uberon is one of the lesser-known wine regions of France . It is in the hot, sunny south, with one foot in Provence, the other in the Rhône Valley. As you might expect, both Luberon and neighbouring Ventoux produce plenty of rich, voluptuous reds, but the winemakers there can also turn their hand to crisp dry rosés and some tantalising white wines.
We will return to Ventoux another week, but it was the white wines of the Luberon that really got me excited on a recent visit. Today we focus on these, which make up 25 per cent of production.
It is surprising that a hot region can produce such vibrant white wines. This is because most of the vineyards are at altitude and often benefit from cold winds coming down from the north. They also enjoy warm days and very cold nights, which bring a wonderful freshness to the white wines.
The grape names are less familiar; all the wines are made from a blend of two or more varieties. A producer can pick from rolle (otherwise known as vermentino) clairette, grenache blanc, ugni blanc, bourboulenc, roussanne, marsanne, viognier and more besides.
In style, most of the wines have the aforementioned freshness alongside some delicious textured stone fruits. They make an excellent partner for most fish, white meats and lighter pasta dishes. I featured the Petit Poulet Blanc earlier this year . It is a Vin de France, but has all the hallmarks of a Luberon wine.
The Mas des Infermières is owned by film director Ridley Scott , while Château la Canorgue is where he made A Good Year starring Russell Crowe , based on the Peter Mayle novel. The Domaine le Novi is one of several made by the hugely talented fifth-generation winemaker Romain Dol.
Lightly textured stone fruits with a crisp dry finish. Drink on its own or with lighter salads and fish dishes.
Forward and rich with mouth-filling nectarines and exotic fruits, finishing bone dry.
From Kari Stores, Dublin 8; wineonline.ie; Letterfrack Country Shop, Co Galway
Acacia aromas with a racy fine acidity and succulent peach and pear fruits. Wonderful wine at a great price.
From Mitchell & Son, Sandycove, Co Dublin and Harcourt Street, Dublin 2; Avoca, Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow and Dunboyne, Co Meath
Floral with delicious textured peach fruits backed up by a lively refreshing acidity. Lovely wine. Try it with white meats or salmon.