CHATEAU GRANDE CASSAGNE
Saint-Gilles, Rhône Valley

Cassagne Blanc
Costières de Nîmes AOC
50% Marsanne, 30% Roussane,
20% Grenache Blanc
The southern Rhône has many different white wine grapes to choose from, these three, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc, make for great bedfellows. Rich and expressive fruit flavors abound with a combination of orchard and stone fruits, like pear and peach, which are complimented by the scent of wildflowers. The palate is supple and round with good freshness and balance in the finish.

POINTS OF INTEREST
For fans of unoaked, fruity styles of Chardonnay, you will love these white grapes native to the southern Rhône. Two brothers, Benoît and Laurent Dardé, work hard to produce balanced and fresh wines from their estate vines that are certified sustainable with organic practices. Just outside the village of Saint-Gilles, the family has been farming and making affordable, classic southern French wines since 1887.

Cassagne Rose
Costières de Nîmes AOC
60% Grenache, 40% Syrah
This region in the far southwest corner of the Rhône has become synonymous with value. Quality producers like the Dardé brothers make approachable wines from the classic native grapes. A fresh and aromatic rosé style of strawberry, fresh herbs, plum, and white pepper, finishing with a delicate and well balanced palate, both mineral and textured.

POINTS OF INTEREST
This is a delicate and fresh style of rosé more in line with Provence than with other parts of the Rhône valley to the north. Two brothers, Benoît and Laurent Dardé, were first introduced to the American market in the early 90s by Robert Kacher as they were taking over the family estate. Just outside the village of Saint-Gilles, this climate benefits greatly from air cooled over marsh lands just to the south of this area. The style is true to the terroir, simple and rewarding.