The parcels of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre that go into this Cotes du Rhone are just outside the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation in the village of Courthézon. The vines are between 45 and 75 years old on a mix of soil types from loam to gravel and the famous galets that make Chateauneuf famous. Jean-Paul Autard works sustainably in his vineyards and picks grapes by hand to avoid damaging the fruit. Fermentation and aging take place in stainless steel tanks. The purity of fruit and suave texture of the wine come from this gentle philosophy. This is a rare sort of Cotes du Rhone that invites food pairing but doesn’t demand it. Bright and clean cut fruits meld easily with smoky, savory notes. Aromas of raspberry fruit leather, cherry, herbs de Provence, smoke and black plum. The palate is streaked with iron ore, raspberry and cherry cordial, and blackberry jam. Substantial and buttressed with sturdy, rough cut tannins. Have it with dishes that take a long time to cook, dishes with citrusy sauces, and hearty cheeses.