France!
This week we're taking a little road trip through the south of France, where the vineyards stretch from the Atlantic toward the Mediterranean and there's always something good to drink. We've got a crisp white, a rosé with a little attitude, and two reds that bring some welcome warmth as the days get colder. Four very different wines, a few lesser-known grapes, and plenty of reasons to linger over another glass.
@ Humble Vine
Wednesday, October 21st
HOURS: 2 PM - 8 PM
Wine Tasting: $25
Platon, Bordeaux Blanc Bordeaux, France | $22
Bordeaux might be famous for its big reds, but its whites deserve a little attention too. Classic white Bordeaux blends Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, combining zippy citrus and fresh herbs with softer peach and pear flavors. Light, bright, and fruity with subtle spice and almond notes.
Boislauzon, “La Chaussynette” Rosé Southern Rhône, France | $27
The Chaussy family has deep roots near Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where sunshine, rocky vineyards and the mighty Mistral wind help shape the wines.Snappy red berry and bitter orange peel notes show broadness on the palate, allied to chalky mineral elements. Bitter orange peel acidity lands the firm finish, which is dusted with dried herbs. Grenache and Mourvedre.
Château Laffitte-Teston, “Reflets” Madiran Madiran, France | $24
Madiran is home to Tannat, a famously dark, tannic grape that doesn't exactly believe in subtlety. The region sits near the Pyrenees, where Atlantic influence and warm summers help develop powerful reds. Black cherry, blackberry, plum, spice and earthy notes. Ample and powerful structure with firm, well-integrated tannins and a fruity, lightly oaked finish. Tannat with a little Cab Sauv, and Cab Franc matured for about 12 months in oak barrels.
Domaine de la Mordorée, “La Remise” Rouge Southern Rhône, France | $29
La Remise combines Marselan, Merlot and Grenache, bringing juicy cherry, blackberry, soft spice and rounded tannins. The grapes are farmed biodynamicaly, hand harvested, and fermented with careful temperature control. Marselan is a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, proving that even grapes can have interesting family trees. A friendly little Rhône red with plenty of personality.
