Maison Stéphan, "Côte Rôtie, 'L'Ultime'" 2021

Wines from the Rhône Valley, located in southeastern France, are celebrated for their diversity and exceptional quality. This historic wine region is divided into the Northern Rhône and the Southern Rhône, each offering distinct styles of wine. In the Northern Rhône, Syrah is the dominant grape variety, producing elegant and full-bodied red wines such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, known for their rich flavors of dark fruits and peppery spice. In the Southern Rhône, blends are the hallmark, with Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre often leading the way, resulting in robust reds like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas, featuring bold fruit profiles, herbal nuances, and a touch of Mediterranean warmth. The Rhône Valley's white wines, predominantly made from Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne grapes, exhibit freshness and complexity, with notable examples like Condrieu and Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc. Overall, Rhône Valley wines showcase the region's terroir-driven character, making them a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide.