The grape variety Chatus

Chatus is a rare and distinctive red grape variety native to the Ardèche region in the Rhône Valley, France. Revered for its robust character, Chatus wines exhibit a deep garnet hue with an expressive aromatic profile featuring dark berry fruits such as black cherry and blackberry, complemented by notes of violet, wild herbs, and a subtle touch of spice. On the palate, Chatus delivers firm tannins, striking acidity, and a full-bodied structure, culminating in flavors of ripe black fruits, licorice, earthy undertones, and a persistent mineral finish.

The primary viticultural heartland for Chatus is the southern Ardèche, where ancient terraces and schist-based soils foster the grape’s vibrant intensity and age-worthy potential. Traditionally, Chatus is crafted as a dry red wine, occasionally seeing oak maturation to enhance its complexity and tannic backbone. These wines are celebrated for their potential to improve with cellaring, revealing additional layers of savory and tertiary character.

Ideal food pairings include hearty regional dishes such as roasted game, braised beef, lamb stew, and earthy mushroom gratin. Hard cheeses and charcuterie also complement Chatus’s rustic structure, while the wine’s bold personality elevates flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.