Prior to establishing Domaine de Accoles, winemaker Olivier Leriche spent 13 years at Domaine de l’Arlot in Burgundy’s Nuits-Saint-Georges. He was instrumental in turning this famed Burgundy house to biodynamic farming. Olivier and his wife, Florence decided to head back to their home in the Ardèche to purchase just over 40 acres of Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. The couple's first goal was to convert the farming to fully organic and biodynamic principles. This is not the norm for a region snubbed upon for world-class grape growing. Although not customary to the Rhône winemaking tradition, Olivier harvests early in order to stay true to his winemaking philosophy acquired from his days spent in Burgundy. The result is more approachable wines with lower alcohol levels. This “Le Rendez-vous des Acolytes” bottling weighs in at 14% while most Chateauneuf du Pape any other satellite Côtes du Rhône Villages wine easily tip 15%. One taste and you’re taking a virtual hike through the slopes of Ardèche. A Mediterranean breeze of wild violets, lavender, and shattered granite notes meet a core of densely layered black fruits. This is not a manly, meaty red, but liquid seduction at an attractive price. We highly recommend letting this wine open in a glass or decanter for at least 30 to 45-minutes before enjoying it. Best to serve at a crisp 55 to 60 degrees to take on its full allure and spice spectrum. Cheers!