Costières de Nîmes AOC is the most southerly appellation in the Rhône valley, nestled at the edge of the Rhône delta, in the hills overlooking the Camargue, with vineyards as little as 20km (12.5 miles) to the Mediterranean sea. The appellation is best understood as two halves, either side of a large hill: a south-facing half facing the sea, and a north-facing half looking towards the historic Roman city of Nîmes.
A terroir shaped by a distinct microclimate
The closest AOC to the Mediterranean sea, Costières de Nîmes is shaped by its long hours of sunshine and wide diurnal range. Moderating, maritime cooling breezes refresh in the southern half of the appellation, while the fierce Mistral dominates the northern half. These winds, combined with very dry summers, allow for exceptionally low disease pressure in the vineyards. Wines are characterised by a distinct freshness combined with intensity of flavour.
Soils are clay or clay-limestone (helpful for water retention), covered by the area’s typical rolled pebbles or galets roulés, deposited by the Rhône and Durance rivers.
Key varieties of Costières de Nîmes AOC
Wine production in the region is dominated by reds and rosés (47% and 42% respectively in 2023), made from the traditional Rhône varieties: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Whites account for an increasing share (11% in 2023) – largely based on Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and Roussanne, with Viognier playing an important secondary role.
Innovation & biodiversity: looking to the next generation
This is one of the Rhône Valley’s greenest AOCs: in 2023, 18% of production was certified organic, 12% biodynamic and another 55% HVE3. Younger generations are bringing exciting new developments in vineyard practices and innovative approaches. Winemaking is modern here as well: excessive new oak is rare, with many producers opting for fresher, lighter styles: reds tend to be ripe and silky, while whites are fresh and crisp.
Costières de Nîmes producers are increasingly branching out into fresher, lighter styles. Credit: David Z
A unique cultural heritage
At the crossroads between Spain and Italy, this southern French appellation represents the true spirit of the Mediterranean. This landscape of vibrant colours is home to a celebrated enogastronomic heritage, built on 2,500 years of rich history. The following four whites showcase the region’s unique combination of freshness and complexity, whilst the reds bring Syrah to the fore, together with Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan.
The famed galet roulés are a key feature of the terroir. Credit: David Z
Twelve Costières de Nîmes wines to try
Domaine la Bergerade, Esprit de Famille 2023
Available from French Vines
Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne in complex balance. Ripe papaya and pineapple complement floral freshness; toasty oak gives weight, structure and a touch of bitter almonds. Supple richness is countered by salinity and lemon.
Drink 2025-2028 | Alc 12.5%
Domaine Gassier, Lou Coucardié 2023
Available from Waud Wine Club
Roussanne-Grenache Blanc-Viognier. Subtle leafy notes, lavender and rosemary. Pretty and delicate but with ripe concentration; orchard fruit and apple blossom with creamy weight from extended lees contact. Oak adds structure and richness, with hints of orange blossom on the finish.
Drink 2025-2030 | Alc 14.5%
Clos des Centenaires, Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2023
Available from Special Cases
100% old-vine Roussanne. White peach, pretty florals and almond blossom. The rich, intense fruit has opulence and elegant structure, while maritime freshness gives long, linear precision. A wine of incredible charm: southern sunshine with floral delicacy.
Drink 2025-2030 | Alc 12.5%
Château Mourgues du Grès, Capitelle 2022
Available from Les Caves de Pyrene
A different facet of Costières de Nîmes whites: a biodynamic Grenache Blanc-Marsanne blend aged in oak demi-muids. Sun-dried garrigue, waxy florals and lemon aromas; savoury…
Source : https://www.decanter.com/sponsored/costieres-de-nimes-aoc-celebrating-the-rhones-southernmost-appellation-549224/