Ep 167: The Grapes of the Southern Rhône with Stage 2 MW student Anna Spooner (Part 1)

2024-02-26

To download the transcript CLICK HERE On todays’ episode, we sit down with Stage 2 Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has recently made the move to the Southern Rhône. In this episode, our focus shifts to the grape varieties that thrive in this region, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasting a remarkable 13 permitted varieties. While Grenache is a familiar name, ever heard of Counoise or Terret Noir? But before we chat about the details of these lesser-known grapes, the first half of the episode is de...

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

On todays’ episode, we sit down with Stage 2 Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has recently made the move to the Southern Rhône. In this episode, our focus shifts to the grape varieties that thrive in this region, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasting a remarkable 13 permitted varieties. While Grenache is a familiar name, ever heard of Counoise or Terret Noir?

But before we chat about the details of these lesser-known grapes, the first half of the episode is dedicated to exploring Anna's wine journey. From her experiences at Freixenet, one of the largest Cava producers, to her eye opening experiences with Tablas Creek, in Paso Robles (Pioneers of the California Rhone movement) and the captivating story of Basilisco in the Campania region, we delve into the influences that have shaped Anna's path.

We not only unveil the secrets of Southern Rhône's grape varieties but also paint a vivid picture of Anna's rich and diverse experiences in the world of wine. From the renowned to the hidden gems, this promises a delightful exploration of both wine and the fascinating individuals who bring it to life.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.19: Working with Freixenet in Penedes, Barcelona

04.20: Discussing how to market Cava in the way that Prosecco achieved

06.03: Wine educating with Jimmy (His episodes on this podcast: Ep 123: Jura Region and Ep 124: Wines of Tenerife)

08.12: Anna winning the The Decanter Online Wine Experience Awards whilst working for The Wine Society

10.08: Virtual wine events hosted by The Wine Society on You Tube including The legendary Chateau Musar. You can watch HERE

11.57: Anna’s own video series online (coming soon). You will be able to watch HERE

14.25: What it is like to be a Master of Wine student

16.19: Anna’s shortlisted article on Jancis Robinson website about Viviana Malafarina - the inspiring women behing winery Basilisco in the Aglianico del Vulture region, Basilicata.

20.14: The Storico Vineyard - a special place

21.39: Anna’s runner up aricle on Jancis Robinson’s website about Tablas Creek, the leaders of renewable viticulture (and founded in partnership with Chateau Beaucastel)

26.58: Châteauneuf-du-Pape varieties, Terret Noir and Counoise

28.44: Varieties and restrictions of grape varieties in Southern Rhône

32.20:’ Garrigue’: what does this wine descriptor actually mean

34.21: Grenache Rouge

Read the study about why Grenache grows best in the Southern Rhone is HERE

35.46: Mourvèdre, known as Monastrell

39.00: The white wines of Southern Rhone and some interesting plantings and blends

44.43: Vin Doux Naturels: Rasteau & Muscat de Beaume de Venise

47.30: Tavel: The only 100% Rose Cru

52.34: Food pairings with darker Rosés

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat