"This 135-acre estate (all in the famed La Crau) has produced a 2009 Vieux Telegraphe Chateaune
uf du Pape composed of 65% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre and the rest other authorized varietals (from vines that average 60 years of age). The wine is aged 18 months in foudres and concrete tanks. This classic offering had just been bottled before my visit, so it was probably tighter than it will be in 6-12 months. Deep ruby/purple-colored with notes of garrigue, seaweed, licorice, plums, black cherries and raspberries, it typically reveals a Mediterranean sea breeze-like character that is difficult to articulate. The sweetness of the tannin, full-bodied mouthfeel, and evolved style remind me somewhat of the 1983, which is still drinking beautifully. The 2009 can be consumed now or cellared for two decades."
- Robert Parker, 92 points
$75.00
The region of Abruzzo is found in Italy’s deep south on the Adriatic coast. The region is comprised of extremely mountainous terrain with the Apennine range reaching up to 9000 feet above sea level. The hillside vineyards planted on calcareous clay benefit from warm and significant sun exposure that is ventilated by dry breezes coming off the Adriatic.
The wine coats your glass with a dark and inky quality, producing voluptuous legs which take their time in reaching the bottom of the glass. Black fruit, plums, cedar, and black licorice aromas abound. This robust wine coats your palate with firm, yet approachable tannins. Try pairing it with lamb, grilled sausage, pasta with meat sauce, and pizza.
Monterey County lies directly in the center of the California coast. This microclimate is influenced mainly by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean; cool coastal breezes are ideal for the development of delicate grape varieties, such as Pinot Noir.
This Pinot Noir opens with a bright lavender color. A quick swirl of the glass will release equally bright and fragrant aromas of blueberries, blackberries, and potpourri. The palate is soft with sturdy acid and fruit-driven flavors of red fruit, berries, and baking spice.
‘Ventoux’ refers to a grand mountain found in Provence in southern France that marks the divide between the Rhone and Provence regions. Vineyard sites surround the lower hillsides and produce wonderful blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre.
This blend of 80% grenache and 20% syrah from the Paul Jaboulet Aine label offers an enticing crimson color with hints of brick red along the sides of your glass. Aromas of red berries, forest underbrush, and garrigue rise from the glass. Tart red fruit flavors abound along with more earthy elements of wet stone. The finish carries just a touch of spice and licorice. Try this red with game meats, barbecued dishes, duck, sausage, salami, and hard, sharp cheeses.
