Laudun

From their Laudun stronghold, the famous emperor’s armies kept watch over the River Rhône; the vineyards here date from that time. History tells us that the first vines were almost certainly planted on the slopes of this oppidum (hilltop settlement) around which the village developed, while archaeologists have found remains of wine amphorae decorated with vine motifs on this site. These are now on display at Maison Carrée in Nîmes. In 1967, Laudun officially became Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation authorised to feature its village name. The vineyards produce some delightful, easydrinking reds, but are also justly acclaimed for their whites. The sandy clay terroirs of Laudun are particularly free-draining, giving the wines freshness and acidity, the key to good balance. Clairette is Laudun’s main white varietal, more widespread here than elsewhere in the Côtes du Rhône as the soils suit it so well – also one of the secrets to success. It is blended with Grenache WHITE, Roussanne and Bourboulenc. On these light soils, Syrah joins Grenache Noir to give rounded, fruity red wines. Rosés are clear and bright in colour with scents of strawberries and a lovely freshness. What a treat!