Back Alley Wine Bar is hosting a captivating celebration of Southern France’s wine heritage, featuring three stellar bottles from Brotte and Chemin des Papes on Monday September 29th. This tasting journey will focus on the rich history and diversity of the Rhône Valley, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Languedoc, and Provence—all regions that have shaped French winemaking for centuries.

Discovering Southern France’s Wine Regions

The Rhône Valley is one of France’s oldest vineyard areas, with a legacy dating back to ancient Greek and Roman cultivation. The valley’s reputation soared in the 14th century, when the papacy moved to Avignon, attracting influential buyers and spurring vital advancements in viticulture. Baron Leroy of Châteauneuf-du-Pape pioneered the modern French appellation system here, laying the groundwork for wine quality standards nationwide.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s fame is deeply entwined with papal history. In 1309, Pope Clement V relocated the papal court to Avignon, and his successors promoted local wines, transforming Châteauneuf-du-Pape into a symbol of prestige. John XXII, the second Avignon pope, constructed the emblematic castle and elevated “Vin du Pape” to international acclaim. This region also became the first official AOC wine area in France in 1936.

Languedoc, along the Mediterranean, is France’s largest wine region and the cradle of French wine, with grape vines introduced by Greek settlers in the 5th century BC. With a climate ideal for varied wine styles, Languedoc became vital for both high volumes and, more recently, innovative quality-focused wines.

Provence sits at the origin of French viticulture, welcoming grape vines as far back as 600 BC when the Greeks founded Marseille. Roman and monastic influences nurtured the region’s wine traditions, and today Provence is celebrated globally, especially for its stylish rosés.

Meet the Producers: Brotte and Chemin des Papes

Maison Brotte is a family-run winery in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, founded in 1931 by Charles Brotte. The Brotte family’s connection to the land dates to the late 1800s, and their stewardship now spans five generations. Brotte has been a pioneer in Rhône Valley bottling and is renowned for sustainable, terroir-focused viticulture, with Domaine Barville as their flagship estate. Their wines—especially the estate’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape—are distinguished by power, silkiness, and environmental responsibility.

Chemin des Papes is a modern producer rooted in Rhône Valley traditions, founded in the mid-1990s. Known for producing quality-driven wines at accessible prices, Chemin des Papes sources fruit from historic vineyards that reflect regional character, delivering classic Rhône expressions to wine lovers worldwide.

Featured Wines and Pairings

Brotte | ‘Baies Dorées’ Viognier | Vin de Pays d’Oc | 2024

With a shimmering yellow hue and hints of green, this Viognier bursts with aromas of ripe apricot, white peach, citrus flowers, and delicate jasmine. The palate is full-bodied, harmoniously blending exotic fruit, citrus, and toasted brioche, finishing with a creamy texture and lively freshness. Pair this expressive white with Thai coconut curry, grilled white fish, or aromatic summer salads, which harmonize beautifully with its floral notes and lush, supple character.

Chemin des Papes | Côtes du Rhône | 2022

This classic southern Rhône red seduces with layers of dark plum, blackberry, and sweet cherry underscored by spiced pepper, licorice, and wild herbs. Supple tannins and a juicy, medium body give way to a smooth, persistent finish. Enjoy alongside roasted lamb with rosemary, charcuterie platters, or herb-grilled eggplant for a pairing that highlights its warmth and savory complexity.

Brotte | ‘Les Hauts de Barville’ Châteauneuf-du-Pape | 2022

A richly textured wine revealing notes of ripe mulberry, strawberry, fig, and cherry, layered with sweet Mediterranean spices, dried herbs, and subtle mineral undertones. The palate is plush yet structured, with silky tannins that linger elegantly. This Châteauneuf-du-Pape is exquisite with duck breast, herb-roasted pork, or aged cheeses, amplifying the wine’s depth and savory spice.

Southern France Tasting at Back Alley Wine Bar