Serve in a Zinfandel Wine Glass
Other reds from France's Rhone Valley include St. Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage. St. Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage are among the largest appellations of the Rhône Valley production zone; they are made primarily from the red variety Syrah, while up to 10% two white grapes, Roussanne and Marsanne are allowed. For Côte-Rotie (literally "roasted slope") and Hermitage, only Syrah may be used.
All four of these wines - especially Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage - are powerful, robust reds that need time to round out after their release. The finest versions of these two wines often drink well for four or five decades. Pair these wines with strong cheeses such as comté or Parmigiano, game birds or roast veal or pork.