When imagining the perfect holiday ambiance, many of us immediately think of the South of France. We’re not sure why exactly, but there’s a good number of reasons why it’s the perfect place to relax and take a breath. There’s the prominent smell of lavender in the air. The many farmer’s markets filled with flavour. The ever-present sun which can sometimes even become too much. The promise of a refreshing dive at the end of the day, be it in the pool or in the sea. And then of course, the wine.
One of the most famous examples of an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée in the South of France when it comes to wine are the Côtes du Rhône. The region in which the wines can be found stretches over quite a big surface, going from Vienne to Avignon and from the foothills of the Massif Central to the fore-slopes of the Vaucluse and Lubéron mountains. The wines are dominated by the Grenache grape and are an absolute classic on every wine menu. If you want to have a taste you could of course make a trip out of it and head to the South. If you can’t or if you’re not in the mood, you don’t have to though – during the month of June, the Côtes du Rhône are coming to Brussels.
It’s the recently-opened food market of the Gare Maritime which has the pleasure to welcome the so-called ApéRHONES, a clever pun combining apéro and Rhône. On four occasions during the month of June, the Côtes du Rhône will reveal their best-kept secrets and will – of course – share their tastiest wines with the public. As the ApéRHONES are organised on Wednesdays, it’s the perfect excuse for an after-work party if you ask us.
Planning
- Wednesday 8 June: refreshing white and rosé wines
- Wednesday 15 June: environmental engagements
- Wednesday 22 June: panache grenache
- Wednesday 29 June: search for excellence
Every Wednesday has its own theme, so it’s up to you to decide which theme you’re more interested in. And of course, if you don’t want to miss anything, you could go the four times as well! From 6 PM to 7 PM, a team of sommeliers will organise the so-called ‘Côtes du Rhône speed tastings’, during which you’ll rapidly get to know the basics about a few different wines. Afterwards, you can order you favourite wine from the menu, together with a little snack. The perfect way to escape from everyday life in Brussels or to get in the mood for your actual holidays.
