The Rhône Valley immediately calls to mind Maison M. CHAPOUTIER, a master in the art of bringing out the local terroir in their wine. Founded in 1808, it’s been run by the same passionate family for eight generations, with Mathilde and Maxime being the latest to join the business. Together with their father, Michel, they continue to uphold the vision and beliefs that make theirs one of the most beloved brands of French wine in the world.

An authority in organic and biodynamic agriculture in the Rhône Valley since 1991, M. CHAPOUTIER is dedicated to protecting the biodiversity and heritage of its precious terroir. It’s constantly innovating and getting involved in environmental initiatives—for example, it phased out the use of capsules around the necks of bottles and cultivates land at a higher altitude to contend with the effects of global warming. 

We’ve singled out a few flavourful wines of theirs for you to try—they each embody the heart, soul and sunshine of the Rhône Valley. For a departure from your typical summer BBQ, we’re spicing things up with Middle Eastern dishes you’re sure to love! 

A refreshing wine

Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône White

One of M. CHAPOUTIER’s most popular wines is this mellow and floral white blend featuring Grenache grapes, a varietal that’s low in acidity. A touch of bitterness gives this delicate wine an irresistible freshness. With notes of fennel, orange blossom, peach pit and pear, it’s perfect for getting the evening started or for sipping alongside falafel sandwiches! 

Rich reds

Rhône Valley wines are characteristically spicy and peppery, which make them the ideal accompaniment to dishes with strong flavours. These sun-filled wines marry beautifully with recipes like lamb kebabs with yogurt sauce. Make them bite-sized to really whet your guests’ appetite! 

In keeping with the theme, follow up your appetizers with Middle Eastern-style burgers, lamb burgers with hummus, tomato, cucumber and yogurt or brochettes of filet mignon, tomatoes and halloumi.

If you feel like putting a little twist on your party, you could host it tapas-style by turning the burgers into sliders and making mini brochettes using bamboo skewers. Here’s another idea: use this recipe for Moroccan spiced grilled Cornish hen as inspiration for some tasty drumsticks or chicken wings.

Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône Red

Their Belleruche also comes in red! With woody notes and aromas of black fruit, pepper and licorice, this robust Côtes-du-Rhône offers unbeatable value for money, making it one of M. CHAPOUTIER’s most popular wines. It would be delicious with barbecued merguez sausages and a simple fennel salad on the side. 

Marius By Michel Chapoutier Pays d'Oc

This balanced blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes has a powerful and complex aroma of spices, licorice and small red fruit—think cherry, raspberry, garrigue and plum. A delicate vegetal note elevates the whole flavour. Serve it slightly chilled, between 10 and 12 °C.

M. Chapoutier Côtes-du-Rhône Collection Bio Adunatio

The Adunatio is part of M. CHAPOUTIER’s organic agriculture collection and reflects their desire to offer organic wines bearing the Rhône name. This ample and elegantly structured wine has just the right level of fruitiness and spiciness, making it another favourite among products specific to the region. 

M. Chapoutier Côtes du Roussillon Villages Les Vignes de Bila-Haut

Domaine de Bila-Haut was founded in Languedoc-Roussillon in the 2000s and was a cornerstone in M. CHAPOUTIER’s expansion to other regions of France. With a great body and structure, this red evokes the warmth of the wild terroir in Roussillon with its aroma of black cherry.

An unassuming red

M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Les Meysonniers

This Crozes-Hermitage doesn’t have as much body as the other reds, but it’s just as delicious with Middle Eastern fare. It’s made with 100% Syrah grapes and smells of violet and freshly ground pepper. It also has notes of cherry skin, cranberry and raspberry at its ripest.

Ready to take your taste buds on a mouth-watering journey? Have fun comparing different pairings. Bon appétit!

In partnership with Maison M. CHAPOUTIER