The boutique family-run Chateau de la Gardine estate was acquired in 1945 by Gaston Brunel whose family have been making wine in this part of the world since the 17th century. Today the estate has a cult following for its excellent Rhone wines which offer tremendous value for money. This is especially true of their Brunel de la Gardine series which are made from the very best fruit sourced from different appellations in the Rhone.

The wines are instantly recognisable thanks to the unique bottle design. Gaston Brunel discovered an ancient bottle buried in the ground while expanding the estate’s cellar and decided to copy it for his family’s wines. The only place that was able to do it was a glass workshop in Italy, and the characterful design has been used ever since.

The family’s Cotes du Rhone is a great example of this classic, easy-going red with luscious notes of dark berries, ripe plums, crushed spices and bitter licorice. On the palate there’s a smooth, well-rounded texture and intense fruit thanks to the Grenache along with firm tannins and a long peppery finish from the Syrah. A great wine to sip on a cold winter’s evening or partner for charcuterie, rich stews, or roasted red meats.