Southern Rhône's Ultimate Grape Duo

The Southern Rhône is world-famous for its iconic GSM blends, combining Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre to create rich, flavorful red wines. But what happens when you strip it down to just two of these powerhouses — Grenache and Syrah? Enter the 2020 Anne Pichon Sauvage from Ventoux, a wine that shakes up expectations and redefines what you think you know about Southern Rhône reds.

The Magic of Ventoux

First, let’s talk terroir. This wine hails from Mont Ventoux, a majestic peak that’s more than just a pretty backdrop. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (aka a learning place for sustainable development) with vineyards perched on its southwest slopes, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun by day and cooling down with brisk nighttime temperatures. This perfect mix gives the wine its incredible balance. Plus, Mont Ventoux sits at a much higher elevation than its famous neighbor, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. What does that mean? Cooler conditions and a unique spin on the Southern Rhône profile.

Now, let’s get into the grapes. Syrah and Grenache are the dynamic duo here, each bringing something special to the table. Grenache is the life of the party, adding body, suppleness, and a burst of red fruit flavors — think juicy raspberries with a spicy cocoa twist. Syrah, on the other hand, is all about intensity. It delivers deep black fruit flavors, a ton of color, and that signature black pepper spice that makes you want to reach for a perfectly grilled steak.

The 2020 Anne Pichon Sauvage is a biodynamic beauty that takes everything you love about Rhône wines and turns it up a notch. Thanks to the fierce Mistral wind that roars through the Rhône Valley, the vines stay cool, the acidity stays fresh, and the grapes remain disease-free — allowing for organic and biodynamic practices. This wind isn’t just a breeze; it’s a game-changer, helping to create wines with unexpected freshness and vibrancy.

The wine’s deep ruby-purple color is a telltale sign of Syrah’s influence. On the nose, it’s a sensory explosion: dried blackberry, olive, and scorched earth, with a sweet, maple syrup-like aroma (don’t worry, it’s not actually sweet). This is a full-bodied red with firm tannins, bright acidity, and that unmistakable black pepper kick on the palate.

Wines Like This

This Grenache-Syrah blend is a must-try for those who crave something different but still love the Rhône’s classic flavors. And if you’re eager to explore more, check out Grenache and Syrah blends from regions like Paso Robles, Roussillon, or even Priorat in Spain (where Grenache goes by Garnacha).

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