Definition: Tricastin AOC (coteaux-du-)

Rhône Valley region, left bank of the Rhône. Production area located between Montélimar and Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux and the road from Dieulefit to Taulignan, more precisely within 22 municipalities in the Drôme department. Classified as an AOC in 1973. Area under production: just over 2,630 hectares. White grape varieties: Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache, Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier. None of these varieties may exceed 60% on their own; reds: Grenache and Syrah (minimum 10%). Neither of these two grape varieties may exceed 80% on its own; secondary grape varieties may account for a maximum of 30% together or 15% separately: Carignan, Cinsaut and Mourvèdre. It should be noted that white grape varieties may be used for the production of rosé and red wines only in proportions not exceeding 20% for the former and 10% for the latter. Vinified as: white for a very small quantity, rosé and red. It can be kept for: 2 to 3 years. Ideal serving temperature: between 8 and 10°C for white; between 10 and 12°C for rosé; between 14 and 15°C for red. Pair with: white with fish or shellfish; rosé with cold meats or grilled meats; red with grilled red meat or meat in sauce, with or without raw vegetables.