It's a Plan for the Long Weekend

There are only 18 villages whose actual names are allowed to be identified with the appellation Côtes du Rhône Villages. These are top examples that demonstrate the classic characteristics of France’s southern Rhône region. Plan de Dieu is one of these villages. Literally translated, it means “field of God.” Must be something heavenly going on here. Legend has it that in the Middle Ages it was said that anyone who ventured into these vast fields of scrub land had better put their trust in God. Why? Because the area was populated with bandits. Now it is cultivated prime vineyard land planted with premium grape varieties. The bulk of the Plan de Dieu vineyards are planted on an alluvial terraces carpeted with large pebbles, rocks and limestone gravel. This blend is mainly based on the Grenache grape, with smaller amounts of Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan. Barrel matured, the colour is deep garnet with violet tinges. The bouquet is full of black fruits of blackberry and black currant. The taste is fresh, yet savoury and well balanced. Hailing from the Ferraton estate, it is now owned by the well-known and respected Rhône based Michel Chapoutier family. With the last long weekend of summer upon us and back-to-school beckoning, the days are getting shorter and evening temperatures cooler. This is characterful red wine perfect for a Labour Day BBQ with family and friends. Chicken thighs, butterflied pork chops or a medium-rare filet of beef, enjoy the pairing!

2021 Ferraton Père & Fils Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône Villages #742229, $19.95