Chateau Mourgues du Gres Galetes Rouge

Château Mourgues du Grès is one of the pioneers of the Costières de Nîmes and is recognized as one of the very best estates in the region. Mourgues du Grès is run by Anne and François Collard. François’s father was the first owner and he made wine, but mostly sold grapes in bulk. François started his career in Bordeaux, working in the cellar at Château Lafite-Rothschild. In 1990, soon after the Costières de Nîmes received appellation status, François was inspired by the potential to make great wines from this little known appellation and he moved back to run the family winery.

The Costières de Nîmes is the southernmost region of the Rhône Valley. The terroir is influenced by the Rhône and the Mediterranean Sea. Like most of the southern Rhône, there is abundant sunshine, the weather is hot and mostly dry, and the Mistral wind helps to keep the vines healthy. The vineyards are covered with galets, the same round, flat stones that are famous in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The Costières de Nîmes is unique within the Rhône region because of the influence of the Mediterranean. The sea cools the nighttime temperature, giving the wines a lot of freshness.

Predominately Syrah from younger vines, with Grenache, Mourvèdre, Marselan, and old vine Carignan making up the final blend. Deep ruby with purple hues; aromas of cherry, blackberry, and soft spices lingering through the finish. Full-bodied with a good acidity and character. Tannins are subtle and smooth. This wine matches perfectly with Italian or Mediterranean cuisine such as pasta dishes, pizza or grilled lamb, but also stands up to tasty meat such as barbecue ribs or duck breast.