Harvest or vendanges is almost over here. For some, it’s been over for a while, but for wineries in the Ventoux it’s just coming to an end. For those who don’t know this wine region, AOC Ventoux (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) is a vast area in the southern Rhône with over 150 wineries. And it’s a bit of a sleeper.
I apologize in advance for anyone reading this who isn't into wine, as you might find it all a bit boring. But for me, what these hardworking, passionate mavericks are doing here is amazing. So many people have come from other countries and seen the possibility this mountain and its geology provides, and are making stunning wine as a result. This region is still known for its "picnic wines"—basic and cheery—yet sadly many don’t know the level of world-class wine being produced here.
The beautiful wines of Philippe Gimel.
I'm not sure what it is about winemaking that makes me feel a swelling in my heart. I know what a difficult business it is, full of heartbreak and things out of your control. I applaud those who make a go of it. But everything it represents just speaks to my soul. When I look around on my bike or while driving and I see these stunning views of mountains and vines, I just feel full. It also adds to the experience to be listening to the Doobie Brothers. I blame it on Bottleshock: that silly movie gave me the same joyful feeling about winemaking even though it was in California. And the Doobie Brothers, in all their 70’s glory, were on the soundtrack. Since then, randomly, Listen to the Music is linked to wine country. But I digress.
Having a little chat with Joanna and James at Château Unang.
Recently AOC Ventoux produced a video (watch below), which got me all choked up: the views, the passion, the people. I am happy to say I know many of these fine winemakers and delighted to finally see social media coverage that lives up to the brilliance of this region. I watched and was almost brought to tears. Now I know for most of you, it won’t get your hearts fluttering. But if you knew these people and this place, you might understand, as one winemaker said why he chose the Ventoux, “Parce que notre montagne est magique”. Simple and true, he is so right.
Because our mountain, these wines, this place, is just magic.
