Followers of the Tour de France will be very familiar with Mont Ventoux, one of the highest mountains in France , which always provides contestants with a severe test. It is also a mecca for amateur cyclists throughout the year. Ventoux gives its name to a surrounding wine region that is not as well known but deserves more recognition as it can produce some excellent wines.
There are 5,000 hectares of vines across 53 villages. The vineyards are at an altitude of 150-550 metres, where they receive cool nocturnal air currents from the mountains and warm sunny days.
Ventoux claims to be the coolest appellation in the Southern Rhône and is the last to harvest. While other nearby regions suffer from increased temperatures, Ventoux should manage climate change for a generation at least, Frédéric Chaudière of Château Pesquié tells me. Like the neighbouring Luberon I covered a few weeks ago , this fluctuation in temperature gives the wines rich, ripe fruit alongside a refreshing acidity.
Red, white and rosé are produced in Ventoux, all of which can be wallet-friendly. As consumers drink less red wine, production of white is increasing. There is a bewildering number of local grape varieties, and most wines are made from a blend of several. Prices have increased over the last few years, but for me they still represent very good value. In Ireland at least, the red wines seem to be the most popular. This is a pity as the food-friendly white wines in particular are worth seeking out. They go well with white meats including chicken, as well as richer fish and shellfish dishes.
This week, we offer one example of each style and two reds. The Le Petit Poulet is a not labelled a Ventoux but is made from a similar blend of grape varieties. In addition to the wines below, the Perrin La Vieille Ferme wines are widely available.
Fresh raspberry and redcurrant fruits with mouthwatering crisp acidity. Drink solo or with salmon.
Medium-bodied with juicy red cherry and strawberry fruits, overlaid with spicy notes and light tannins on the finish. This would go nicely with most red meat dishes and firm cheeses.
From Mitchell , Sandycove and The Vaults, Hatch Street, Dublin; Avoca Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow and Dunboyne, Co Meath
Seductive, big concentrated dark fruits, herbs and well-integrated tannins. Seriously good wine at a great price. Decant and pair with roast red meats and game.
Fragrant with rich textured exotic fruits and a lip-smacking bone-dry finish. A very attractive, moreish and succulent wine.
From Wineonline.ie; Blackrock Cellars, Co Dublin; Neighbourhood Wine, various locations