Discover in video: the vineyards of Southern Ardèche, a journey to the heart of the terroir

Southern Ardèche is known for its spectacular caves. But did you know that a new species has recently been discovered there? The speleologist-oenologist.

For the past few years, it has been proliferating in a cavity in the Saint Marcel d'Ardèche cave.

What he loves most of all? Exploring, several dozen meters underground, the galleries one by one until he reaches the one dedicated to wine tasting.

It must be said that this is an ideal cellar: a constant temperature of around 14°, a humidity level of over 90% which guarantees the sealing of the corks and barrels, total darkness, an absence of vibrations which offers complete rest to the wine and finally a healthy environment.

So all the winemakers in the village of Saint Marcel d'Ardèche had this crazy idea to age their Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint Andéol wines under these unique conditions. Then others decided to do the same at Aven d'Orgnac. Here, nearly 1,200 bottles and 13 barrels are aging peacefully.

The idea originated with the explorers of these caves who carried a supply of wine to drink on site. It is said that with each visit, they noticed that the wine improved in quality.

You too should try the experience! It seems that this return to the roots of the terroir gives the wine a different taste.

Pourquoi nous faire confiance ?

Depuis 2014, chez Les Grappes, nous partons à la rencontre de vignerons passionnés partout en France pour dénicher des vins authentiques, vivants et pleins d'histoire. En travaillant directement avec plus de 500 vignerons, nous sélectionnons des cuvées que nous aimons vraiment et que nous avons envie de vous faire découvrir.

Ce blog est le prolongement de cette aventure. On y partage nos découvertes, nos conseils, nos coups de cœur, nos meilleurs accords mets-vins, des idées de dégustation et tout ce qui nous anime au quotidien autour du vin.

L'objectif est simple : vous aider à choisir des bouteilles qui vous ressemblent et à prendre encore plus de plaisir à les déguster.