The Chicken Wine: A Love Story

by Bridget

Once upon a time, there was a girl who loved French wine with all of her heart. But, alas, this poor maiden had limited funds. What is a lass to do? One day, whilst browsing the French section of a humble wine merchant, she came across an enchanted little bottle from the Southern Rhone. The label had two chickens on it and contained the magical words, "La Vieille Ferme Cotes du Ventoux". At that very moment, a love affair was born.

If there is one thing in this world that warms the cockles of my cold little heart (besides Kung Fu films) it's inexpensive and delicious French wine. Specifically, wines from the Southern Rhone. Affectionately referred to as the "chicken wine" by it's devotees, La Vieille Ferme Cotes du Ventoux is a cheeky little blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Cinsault. It has great soft fruit and spice with a touch of earth on the back palette. It isn't overly complex, but it is just damn tasty. It's one of my favorite "junk food" wines. Pairs excellent with chicken wings, barbecue ribs, burgers and/or Dorito's. And they make a white as well! La Vieille Ferme Cotes du Luberon is a blend of Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Ugni Blanc and Roussanne. Aromatic, round, a little silky with soft peach notes. One night, my friends and I decided to have breakfast for dinner and I served the chicken white. It went awesome with scrambled eggs and chedder cheese, turkey sausage,and home fries. But wait, there's more! There is even a rose! A blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah, I warn you, it goes down very easy. I just had it the other night with salmon cakes, and, alas, a romance was rekindled.

I'm sorry, but I just can't help myself. I have told every living being about the magic that is the chicken wine.I even joined the La Vieille Ferme Fan page on Facebook. It's my go-to wine when all else has failed me, my old reliable, my old flame.

If loving the Chicken Wine is wrong, well, then I don't want to be right.