Region: Cotes du Ventoux, Rhone, France

Varietal: 60% Grenache, 40% Syrah

Tasting Notes: Ripe, but with a breezy edge as damson plum and bitter cherry notes glide through, laced with underlying mineral and floral details. Light kiss of toast on the finish.

Producer: Château Pesquié is a tale of three generations of winemaking passion. It all started in the early 1970s when Odette and René Bastide took over the vineyard and gave it a major makeover. Back then, they brought their grapes to the local cooperative, but big changes were on the horizon. In 1985, Edith and Paul Chaudière, René and Odette’s daughter and son-in-law, left their medical careers behind to dive into winemaking full-time. They renamed the estate Château Pesquié and produced their first vintage in 1990. At that time, they were one of just 10 independent wineries in the area—a number that has since skyrocketed to over 120. Today, the estate is run by Frédéric and Alexandre Chaudière, the dynamic sons of Edith and Paul. Since 2003, these brothers have been expanding the family legacy, showcasing the exceptional terroir of Ventoux to the world. Their 100-hectare estate, which boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times (with the name “Pesquié” meaning “fish ponds” in Latin, due to the abundant springs), is a testament to their dedication.

Vineyard & Winemaking: The vineyards at Château Pesquié are certified organic, and the brothers have embraced biodynamic practices to enhance their grapes’ growth. They grow their vines on gravelly, clay-limestone hillsides, which contribute to the wines’ distinctive character. In the cellar, Frédéric and Alexandre focus on creating wines that are elegant, pure, and balanced. They ferment in stainless steel and age their wines in a variety of vessels—steel, concrete, or barrel—depending on the varietal, to achieve the perfect taste profile.