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Between Rhône and Provence, Ventoux takes its name from the imposing mountain which forms the backdrop to its ancient vineyards. Its footslopes provide ideal terroir for growing exceptional quality grapes, a fact first recognised by the Perrin family over 40 years ago when they discovered this sandy (safres) plot. As the Ventoux name implies, it's a windy region and, coupled with the height of vineyards, the area’s red wines have “a kind of mountain coolness and freshness” (Andrew Jefford). This is a terrific wine from the 5th-generation Perrin family, the leading organic producer of the southern Rhône. Using a classic blend of grapes, it's a vibrant red with scents of herbal fruit and tobacco. Ideal with lamb kebabs or roast squash pilaf.

In 1911, great grandfather of the current owner forsook his birthplace of Burgundy and headed south to the Rhône valley. There he bought his first vineyard. Today, Laurent Guillot is in charge, working the family plots both in Burgundy and the southern Rhône. For this voluptuous Villages red, he combined two parcels of premium quality grapes from some of their oldest vines. The Grenache is from between Orange and Avignon, close to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the soils of which produce a powerful, full-bodied style. The Syrah is from clay-limestone soils on the Rhône’s right bank, lending a silky, fresh-fruit note. Add in the quality of the vintage and this red is rich, dark and intense. A great wine to serve with roast lamb or a rich casserole.

The southern Rhône’s cru villages deliver remarkable richness as well as value – all nine of them well worth discovering. One of the best is Vacqueyras, the village watched over by the towering Dentelles de Montmirail (google and you'll find some impressive images of these iconic rugged landmarks) . Cuvée Préstigieux is from the Guillot family. In 1911, great grandfather of the current owner forsook his birthplace of Burgundy and headed south to the Rhône valley. There he bought his first vineyard. Today, Laurent Guillot is in charge, working the family plots both in Burgundy and the southern Rhône. This Cuvée Préstigieux is a full-bodied style with ripe raspberry fruit from the Grenache, while the Syrah brings herbal aromas and blackberry and a touch of Mourvèdre adds spice. Ace with roast lamb or a rich casserole.