chateauneuf-du-pape

April 2012
CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
Bonjour
We’ve already seen the enormous accolades thrown at the Bordeaux and Burgundy 2009s. Well now it’s the turn of
the southern Rhone where we have two great back to back vintages 2009 and 2010. We’re focused here on the 2009
Chateauneuf-du-Papes which are just arriving now, but over the last two years we’ve been blown away by what we’ve
tasted, not just at the top but also from the most basic entry level wines. Read on and discover some of the best value,
hedonistic, juicy full bodied red wines ever to come out of this region. Santé!
Jean-Christophe & Scott
Village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Vintage Report: 2009 was tailored for Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Winter and spring were cold and wet, which
allowed the vines to store energy and water
reserves. It proved critical, as the growing
season was very dry, with virtually no rainfall
from June through August, and with a two-week
blast of heat in August.
Due to the high temperatures, the ripening of the
grapes was accelerated. Luckily, a freshening
rain fell in mid-September, giving the vines a
needed respite from the heat and allowing them
to continue ripening their fruit through harvest.
The result is concentrated grapes with well
balanced acidity and structure.
Growers reported extremely healthy conditions
in the vineyards, along with dark colours, ripe
expressive fruit and soft, but substantial tannins.
"Since 1974, we have never seen such beautiful
grapes at the end of the season," said Frédéric
Coulon of Domaine de Beaurenard.
Veronique Maret, of Domaine Charbonniere is
also very happy to report that the vintage is of
top quality as it was also her very first vintage
by herself – overlooked, of course by her father
Michel. She’s very proud of the results.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2009 are top quality
wines. Full-bodied, concentrated, and rich in
fruit. They are immediately appealing but will
show better in the long run; even better than the
2007’s.
The Southern Rhone
wine region
Appellation
Approximately 3100 hectares encompassing
all of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and parts of
the neighbouring communes of Bedarrides,
Courthezon, Orange and Sourgues.
The terrain is characterized by large pink
stones, galets, which gather heat during the day
reradiating it into the night.
This is not the only soil type though as there are
also calcareous limestone slopes and sandy
alluviale terraces.
One of the unique properties of the appellation
is the 13 permitted grape varieties: Grenache,
Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Muscardin,
Vaccarese, Picpoul, Terret Noir, Counoise,
Clairette, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Picardin.
Vines are planted at a minimum density of 3000
plants/hectare. Maximum yields are 35hl/ha (2
tonnes/acre).
Minimum alcohol is 13.5% (the highest minimum
for any appellation in France.
Notre Coup De Coeur
ORDER NO
Pegau
W!
Laurence Pegau
When it comes to classifying the great producers
of Chateauneuf-du-Pape there are four names that
stand out, Henri Bonneau (almost unobtainable
NZ$400-500), Ch Rayas (again very rare NZ$200300), Beaucastel (NZ$180-200) and Domaine du
Pegau. Wine guru Robert Parker sums it up
pretty well:
The 32 acre estate of Laurence Feraud and her
father, Paul, produces one of Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s
most majestic, old-style, robust, superconcentrated,
blockbuster wines. I have long been a huge fan of this
estate, and have put my money where my mouth is
having purchased all of Pegau’s vintages since 1979.”
~ Robert Parker
This magnificent estate has parcels of old vines
sprinkled throughout the best sectors of this
appellation, including one planted in 1902 near La
Gardine and another in the heart of La Crau planted
in 1905.
At Pegau it is winemaking with no compromises. Ripe grapes, very low yields, extended lees contact in large foudres,
minimal use of sulphur, and even more importantly no fining or filtration.The results are wines that are among the most
classic and long-lived of the appellation, rivaling those of both Henri Bonneau and Chateau Rayas.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape “Cuvée Réservée” 09: $99.00 -$85.00 – The colour is a dense black/ruby
(one of the more opaque 2009s I saw), and the powerful nose offers up aromas of licorice, smoked herbs, charcuterie,
bouquet garni, roasted meats, Peking duck, kirsch, blackberries and cassis. An enormous success, this cuvee has come
on like gang busters since I tasted it last year, and may eclipse the stunning 2007. Given its tannin profile, the 2009 will
require 5-6 years. (95/97pts Robert Parker).
Beaurenard
Family owned and operated, Frederic Coulon crafts some of the most
fruity, charming and supple wines of the whole appellation.
With the modernization of the cellars in the late 80’s, the quality of
the wines has gone from excellent to often exceptional. From their 75
acres they produce two wines.
The standard wine is produced from vines with an average age of 40
years, while the luxury cuvee “Boisrenard” is from a small plot of vines
aged 60 to 90 years or older. This latter wine is world class, a great
example of the Appellation, uncompromising in its richness.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $75.00 -$65.00 - Always a
gorgeous, supple beautifully balanced wine the 2009 just reinforces
the reputation of the Coulons. All Chateauneuf should be as good as
this. Notes of unsmoked cigar tobacco, roasted herbs, spice box, black
currants, raspberries and cherries. Medium to full-bodied and luscious,
it is ideal for drinking over the next decade. (90pts Robert Parker)
Chateauneuf “Boisrenard” 09: $120.00 -$105.00 Within this old vine plot there are some vines that they’re uncertain of
their age. Without doubt well in excess of 100 years. This dense ruby/
purple-tinged, round, generous, plump, succulent effort reveals hints
of graphite, black currants, blackberries and kirsch. Heady as well
as softer than most vintages tend to be at this age, with admirable
concentration, purity and texture. (93pts Robert Parker)
Charbonniere
Michel and Mireille Maret with daughters
Michel Maret’s 23 hectare estate is producing better and
better wines every year and now ranks in the top echelon of
Chateauneuf-du-Pape producers.
And now both his daughters are working on the vineyard, always
improving the quality of this domaine. 2009 is Veronique’s 1st
vintage on her own as winemaker. We’re expecting great things.
“These are classic, textbook Chateauneuf-du-Papes. The wines
are pure, rich, complex, and while approachable young, will age
well for 10 to 15 years.” Robert Parker
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $57.00 -$49.50 -The
2009 Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of 70% Grenache and
the rest equal parts Syrah and Mourvedre, aged in foudres.
This wine is one of the darkest of the vintage for Maret, and a
classic example of Provencal viticulture. Ground pepper, kirsch
liqueur, garrigue, spice box and loamy soil notes jump from the
glass of this dense, rich, supple, concentrated Chateauneuf-duPape. It possesses loads of fruit, a lushness that is enormously
charming, and an up-front precociousness that suggests
drinking over the next 7-10 years. (91pts Robert Parker)
Chateauneuf-du-Pape “Mourre des Perdrix”
09: $77.00 -$69.00 - (70% grenache, 15% syrah and 15%
mourvedre) From a small red clay plateau near to Courthezan.
The vines here are between 30 and 50 years old. This site
produces wines with a voluptuous forward nature. (92pts
Stephen Tanzer)
Pierre Usseglio
Thierry Usseglio
Francis Usseglio left Italy in 1931 and became a vineyard worker in Chateauneufdu-Pape, and established the domaine in 1948. His son Pierre succeeded him
and expanded the domaine to 21 hectares divided among 15 different vineyard
plots. It is now managed by Pierre’s two sons Jean-Pierre and Thierry.
This small domaine is now one of the most talked about in Chateauneuf-du-Pape,
having produced what are arguably some of the appellations finest wines for the
last 3 or 4 years. One of our personal favourites!
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $65.00 -$58.00 - Vivid ruby.
Deep
red and dark berry aromas show good clarity and turn spicier with air. Juicy
and precise on the palate, offering blackberry and cherry flavours and a hint of
candied lavender. Closes with very good energy and lift, the spice and dark berry
notes repeating. This wine is showing far more elegance now than it did last year.
(91pts Stephen Tanzer)
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09 1.5L: $140.00 -$125.00 ORDER NO
W!
Chateauneuf du Pape 09 3L: $360.00 -$320.00
Clos la Roquete
Owned by the Brunier family, since 1986, and renamed Clos la Roquete in 2007, the domaine has seen the quality of its
wine rise higher every year ever since. The estate has thus slowly and gradually risen in stature, affirming its personality
around these terroirs’ freshness, finesse and elegance.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $65.00 - $57.00 - Perfumy style, this is tangy, with a mulled spice and damson
plum profile, laced with taut red licorice and lightly roasted cedar notes.
Burgundian-like delicacy with notes of spring flowers, sweet cherries, black currants, forest floor and spice. Medium to fullbodied, elegant, pure and well-balanced. (92 pts Robert Parker)
Cuvee du Vatican
This estate has had a remarkable renaissance under the young and passionate Jean-Marc Diffonty.
They have 23 ha of AOC Chateauneuf-du-Pape which typically consists of a blend of 70% Grenache,
15% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault.
The grapes are not de-stemmed. For the standard cuvee the wine is matured in 40% foudre, 30%
tank and 30% old barrels. While for the Reserve Sixtine 70% in one, two and three year old barrels
and 30% in tank.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $54.00 -$47.00 - From the bottle, the 2009 Chateauneufdu-Pape has lived up to its pre-bottle form. Composed of 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah and the rest
Mourvedre, Cinsault and other varietals, it exhibits a dark ruby/plum colour along with plenty of juicy,
succulent, cassis and kirsch liqueur notes intertwined with hints of licorice, incense and underbrush.
This full-bodied, sexy, lush offering also reveals a note of nori, the seaweed wrap used in sushi
restaurants. Consume this 2009 over the next 10-12 years. (90pts Robert Parker; 91pts Stephen
Tanzer)
Chateauneuf-du-Pape “Cuvée Sixtine” 09: $80.00 -$70.00 - The brilliant 2009
Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve Sixtine (a blend of 45% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 25% Mourvedre
aged in small barrels of which less than 10% is new) reveals a darker deep purple colour with a
vague hint of vanilla in the background. Blackberry, cassis, kirsch, licorice and Provencal herb
characteristics dominate the explosive aromatics. (93pts Robert Parker)
The Diffontys
Domaine des Senechaux
An old domaine that in the last few years has been revitalised under new ownership and a young winemaking team. The
vineyard is 65% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre, and the rest Cinsault and Counoise. Wine making is traditional, with
70% of the aging being in tank or foudre and the balance in small barrels and demi-muids.
This estate has an amazingly low profile and continues to be one of the appellation’s most outstanding bargains.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $65.00 -$58.00 - This is powerfully rendered, with a still taut and compact yet racy core
of linzer torte, black licorice snap, fig sauce and cassis notes that all drive through the long finish, where hints of juniper, roasted
alder wood and smoldering tobacco lurk.
Well-embedded acidity holds it all together as well, with impressive range and depth. It seems the Cazes family has stepped it
up here. Best from 2013 through 2023. (93pts Wine Spectator)
Vieux Lazaret
Named after the "Lazarists" monks who had a hospice
for old, poor and disabled persons on the site of the
domain. The Quiot family bought the estate in the 18th
century and is now managed by Jerome Quiot - the
10th generation. Vieux Lazaret produces wines in a
modern style with gorgeous levels of fruit as well as
superb purity.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $48.00
-$43.00 - Lovely black cherry and black currant fruit
notes intermixed with cedarwood, licorice and a whiff of
Provencal herbs. This deep ruby/purple-tinged wine is
a fresh, ripe, full-bodied, classic Chateauneuf-du-Pape
made in a pure, zesty style. (90pts Robert Parker; 90pts
Stephen Tanzer)
Vieux Télégraphe
This venerable estate’s name is derived from an old telegraph station, which was once sited on the hill where
this Chateauneuf domaine now stands. The domaine itself originates from vines planted by Hippolyte Brunier
in 1898, and is today still in the hands of the Brunier family, managed by Daniel and Frederic.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape “La Crau” 09: $110.00 -$95.00 - Today this estate with its huge
holding in the most famed part of the appellation, La Crau, is firmly established as one of the benchmarks.
Great wines!
Intense red fruit and potpourri aromas show excellent precision and a suave, spicy character. Licorice and
lavender nuances add complexity to juicy raspberry and bitter cherry flavours, with the wine putting on weight
in the glass. Finishes taut and youthfully tangy, with echoing licorice and spice notes. (93pts Stephen Tanzer;
92 pts Robert Parker)
Telegramme
Unlike most other producers the Bruniers don’t make a
deluxe cuvee instead preferring to improve the quality of
their standard cuvee by declassifying the young vines (less
than 30 years of age) into a second Chateauneuf labeled
Telegramme.
This is a real bargain with only a marginal difference in
quality but less structure than the grand vin.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $62.00 -$55.00 - A
juicy, gutsy style, with a core of crushed plum, braised fig
and warm red and black cherry confiture notes on the open,
lively finish. (91pts Wine Spectator)
An old Grenache vine
La Nerthe
One of the oldest and largest estates of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, la Nerthe has become
one of the most sort after wines of the appellation. It's an impressive visit to the cellars
where top Michelin star restaurants have their own individual cellars, with wines being
reserved every year. Under the management of Alain Dugas the 225 acre biodynamically
farmed estate now produces better wines than at any other time in its history.
Approximately 50% of the vineyard is Grenache, but all thirteen permissable varieties are
grown here.
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 09: $90.00 -$78.00 - Delicious. Its dark ruby/purple
colour is followed by a wine with soft, supple tannins, copious blue and black fruits, and
hints of kirsch and earth. (92 pts Robert Parker)
Around and about Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Where to eat
• Coteaux & Fourchettes - A new restaurant in Cairanne.
Cyril Glémot, former chef at L’Oustalet in Gigondas, joined forces
with the sommelier Romain Gaillard to open this new restaurant
and wine cellar in the heart of the vineyards of Cairanne. Cyril
proposes creative gastronomic cuisine with fresh products in
season mainly from local producers and, of course, a fine range of
wines. The menu changes every two weeks.
• La Mère Germaine Restaurant reopens in Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
After being closed for more than a year, this venerable institution
founded in 1922 in the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape by Madame
Vion, former cook at the Élysée Palace, is reopening thanks to
André Mazy! Tasty fare is served in vast, well-lit, entirely renovated
rooms.
• Simple but tasty and local - Restaurant “Sous l’arbre” in
Vacqueyras.
We like the village atmosphere of this casual restaurant on the
“place du Marche” in Vacqueyras. They offer a large selection of
meats (white and red) cooked on an open charcoal grill. Just ask
for the “grillades du jour”.
Where to stay
• Rustic charm in rural tranquility - Auberge “La Bastide Bleue” in
Seguret.La Bastide Bleue is nestled at the base of the spectacular
hill town of Seguret, amidst a sea of vineyards. The rooms are large
and spotless and charming. It offers fantastic value for money, and
a fantastic restaurant too.
• Luxury Bed and Breakfast - “Le Vieux Figuier” in Seguret.
An elegantly renovated 18th century “mas” nestled among the
vineyards of Seguret. The house and vast gardens offers an oasis
of calm and light among flower beds, lawns, ornamental trees (huge
fig trees) and orchard. Hard to find but very much like paradise!
and cross this kingdom through evergreen oaks, aromatic plants,
Aleppo pines, vineyards, stone peaks and walls. Views of the plain
that take your breath away open before you. Many options of walks
start from the village of Gigondas or Beaumes de Venise.
• Kayaking under the Pont du Gard.The Pont du Gard is an
architectural marvel, and a masterpiece of human creative genius.
Kayaking underneath is a stunning experience, and a great day out.
Photo opportunities are unlimited. You don’t need to be super-fit just want a little taste for adventure.
For an easy, two hour ride, pick up your kayaks from the village of
Collias.
What to see
• The town of the nine Popes - Le Palais des Papes in Avignon.
Listed by Unesco as a World Heritage site, it is the largest Gothic
palace in the world covering 15,000m2 of surface area. There are
over twenty places to visit: chapels, reception rooms, gardens, the
Popes’s private apartments and the fabulous fresco decorations
painted by the Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti.
• Traces of the Roman heritage - The Théâtre Antique d'Orange.
Built early in the 1st Century AD, it is one of the best preserved of
all the Roman theatres in the Roman colony. Playing a major role in
the life of the citizens, who spent a large part of their free time there,
the theatre was seen by the Roman authorities not only as a means
of spreading Roman culture to the colonies, but also as a way of
distracting them from all political activities.
Palais des Papes
• Another of Jean-Christophe’s favorites – Maria & Andreas’ B&B in
Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
Two large rooms in a typical village house and kept impeccably by
Maria and Andreas (both from Austria). Andreas also works at the
famous Domaine du Pegau and can talk to you about wine all day
and night long. Wonderful people. Maria offers the best breakfast.
What to do
• The Dentelles de Montmirail on foot This mountain, finely chiselled
like a majestic stone filigree, does not go unnoticed. The Dentelles
de Montmirail contains secrets that only hikers can discover. Pace
Le mot de David
David is one of Maison Vauron’s most loyal customers and he visited Chateauneuf-du-Pape with JC, a while
ago with another friend, James. He gave us his thoughts about the trip.
"James and I were honoured to be able to accompany Jean-Christophe (JC for short) on one of his buying
trips to France in January. JC had arranged fantastic accommodation and Winemakers Tour: Pegau,
Vieux Telegraphe, Beaurenard… All the wines we tasted were of high quality but the lasting memory of
Chateauneuf-du-Pape and its surrounding area was the hospitality of Maria and Andreas at the B&B, the
diversity of the whites and the remarkable quality of the reds imported by Maison Vauron and the realisation
young vines were under 25 years.
Favourite Domaine: Alary, great wines at amazing value
Sang des Cailloux, wines of character
Biggest fright: JC’s driving… James and I were begging each other not to sit in the front suicide seat with JC.
Clearly when JC left France Frenchmen drove like madmen. They have changed, JC hasn’t. - David Graham
Gigondas
Les Pallières
This very old domaine has been dramatically revitalized after being purchased in 1998 by the Bruniers (Vieux Télégraphe) and American wine importer
Kermit Lynch. Located on the northern edge of Gigondas, with many old vines well over 50 years, les Pallieres has quickly emerged as one of the premier
Gigondas producers.
Gigondas “Terrasses du Diable” 09: $57.00 -$49.00 - Bright ruby. Vibrant aromas of strawberry, raspberry, Asian spices and potpourri.
Suave, silky and weightless, with noteworthy finesse and a penetrating quality to the flavours of red fruits and candied rose. Very complex, spicy and
incisive Gigondas. Finishes with a strong floral quality and impressive length. (90/93 pts Stephen Tanzer)
Bouissiere - arriving August 2012
Located on the slopes of the towering Dentelles de Montmirail, the Domaine Bouissiere is managed by the Faravel brothers. Thierry and Gilles grew up
in Gigondas and learned much from their winemaking father, Antonin, who Thierry described as a “weekend winemaker.” While he worked at another
domaine, Antonin would tend his family plots only on the weekends when he had free time.
For almost two decades the family sold their fruit from these mountain plots, until they decided in 1979 to start bottling wines themselves. Today, the
Faravels are considered one of the leading artisan winemakers in Gigondas.
Gigondas 2010: $47.00 -$42.00 - Intense, highly perfumed aromas of black raspberry, spicecake and lavender, with a bright mineral quality
adding vibrancy. Rich and expansive but fresh, offering vibrant red and dark berry flavours that show a seamless texture and impressive focus. Finishes
spicy, floral and long. (91-93pts Stephen Tanzer)
Gigondas “Font de Tonin” 2010: $72.00 -$65.00 - A sensational effort, the opaque ruby/purple-tinged 2010 Gigondas La Font du Tonin
is a deeper, richer, more structured and backward effort revealing full body as well as loads of incense, flower, blueberry, black raspberry and bouquet
garni notes. Very perfumed with stunning purity and overall equilibrium, this big, well-balanced, intriguing Gigondas should drink well for 12-15+ years.
(91-94pts Robert Parker; 93-95 Stephen Tanzer)
Espiers
The vineyards at Espiers have been owned by the Cartoux family since 1879, but it wasn’t until 1989 that the young, tall
handsome Philippe Cartoux founded Domaine des Espiers.
A work of passion, Philippe is unswerving in his dedication to both the region and the appellation. He has converted the
vineyard to organic principles as well as reducing yields dramatically while at the same time increasing the density of
plantings to 5400 vines per hectare, well above the norm for the region.
The vinification takes place at his wife’s domaine, Montvac, 4 kms down the road in Vacqueyras. Espiers Gigondas is
true to its origins yet distinctive in that rather than being tough and rustic as many young Gigondas often are, it exudes an
amazing aromatic richness and freshness.
Gigondas 09: We only have 2009 vintage in 375ml and 1.5L. The 2010 will be arriving shortly.
Highly perfumed, expressive bouquet of black raspberry, potpourri and Asian spices, with a subtle smokiness. Sweet and
expansive, offering lively black and blue fruit and spice flavours and a hint of candied lavender. Rich but lithe, finishing with
very good clarity and length. Sexy and delicious now. (90pts Stephen Tanzer)
Gigondas 09 375ml: $23.00 -$20.00 Gigondas 09: 1.5L $95.00 -$85.00 Gigondas 2010: $44.00 -$39.00
Vacqueyras
Sang des Cailloux
Serge Férigoule
Year in and year out this is one of the most consistently high quality producers in
Vacqueyras. Proprietor Serge Ferigoule (who has one of the greatest mustaches that
exists in France) has 17 ha in AOC Vacqueyras, planted with 70% Grenache, 20%
Syrah, 7% Mourvedre and 3% Cinsault. This blend is used for the basic cuvée which
makes up 80% of the production.
This basic cuvée changes regularly between 3 names Cuvée Floureto, Cuvée
Doucinello and Cuvée Azalaïs, after the names of Serge’s daughters. This is the leading
estate of Vacqueyras.
Vacqueyras “Azalais” 09: $45.00 -$39.00 - Wild, highly perfumed
bouquet evokes red and dark berry preserves, smoky herbs and and potpourri.
Blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavours show serious intensity and pick up cracked
pepper and licorice nuances with air. (90pts Stephen Tanzer)
Vacqueyras “Lopy” 09: $66.00 -$59.00 - A stunning effort, it boasts a
black ruby hue along with notes of black raspberries, black cherry jam, camphor,
licorice, truffle and roast beef. There is almost a grilled charcoal/bloody steak
component to this intensely flavoured, full-bodied Vacqueyras. With sweet tannins, a
wonderful succulence and a full-bodied texture. (93pts Robert Parker)
Montvac - arriving May 2012
Cécile Dussere is the fifth generation at the domain, and is married to Philippe Cartoux, the owner of Domaine des Espiers. Her early career was as a
ballerina, and the finesse and elegance of this previous occupation are reflected in the wine.
Vacqueyras 2010: $36.00 -$32.00
Sexy, complex bouquet of dark berry preserves, sassafras, lavender and black olive. Fresh blackberry and cherry flavours are nicely delineated. Not a big
wine but very focused.
Quiot
Genevieve, Florence, Jerome and Jean-Baptiste Quiot, through their family estate Quiot make
wonderful Cote du Rhone and Vacqueyras. Winemakers since 1748, they have accumulated large
holdings in the Rhone Valley and the Provence area. Unbeatable value!
ORDER NO
W!
Vacqueyras 09: $32.00 -$28.00 - Brilliant crimson colour. Very fresh fruit aromas with a hint
of floral notes. A touch of liquorice and spices on the palate.
Les Dentelles de Montmirail
with Mt Ventoux at the back
Côtes Du Rhône & Villages
There is something for everyone here, these Cotes du Rhones are some of the most versatile everyday drinkers you’ll come across all
with a soft round mouthfeel and great flavour. Make your own choice or try our 6 bottle pack.
Alary
Côtes du Rhône six pack - RRP $162.50
special $140 - 1 each of:
* Alary Cotes du Rhone
Côtes du Rhône “La Gerbaude” 2010: $22.50 -$20.00
- One of our favourites, always a crowd pleaser and the 2010 is textbook
Cotes du Rhone. Not to be missed.
* Fond Croze Cotes du Rhone
* Grands Bois Cotes du Rhone “Philippine”
* Lafond Lirac
Cairanne 2010: $27.50 -$22.00 - Bright crimson, hints of
coconut on the nose. Lots of rich, sleek fruit. Well handled fruit. Great life
to it. 16.50 pts Jancis Robinson.
* Usseglio Cotes du Rhone
* Pesquie Cotes du Ventoux Terrasses.
Cairanne “Font d’Estevenas” 2010: $35.00 -$32.00
- Dark plum and blackberry fruit mixed with hints of anise, juniper and
roasted mesquite. There's good cut on the finish, with the oak wellembedded and juicy acidity framing it all. A beauty.
Beaurenard
Rasteau 09: $38.50 -$34.00 - A plump, mouthfilling style,
showing fleshy plum sauce and melted red licorice flavours, with a long,
sleek finish that sports a well-embedded mineral note. (90pts Wine
Spectator)
Fond Croze
Côtes du Rhône 09: $22.00 -$19.00 - You are surrounded by
100 year old vines on the descent into the valley of the Aygues and the
tiny village of St Roman de Malegarde the home of Fond Croze. It is little
wonder they produce such wonderful, hearty wines.
Grands Bois
Côtes du Rhône “Trois Soeurs” 2010: $23.00 -$20.00
- Another great value. Abundant notes of peppery sweet raspberries,
strawberries and cherries, medium body, excellent ripeness and plenty of
Provencal typicity. (89pts Robert Parker)
Côtes du Rhône Villages“Philippine” 09: $26.50
-$23.00 - A blend of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and the rest
Mourvedre and Carignan. A slightly more earthy effort, it reveals an
autumnal/vegetative character intermixed with notions of black cherries
and black currants, outstanding ripeness. (90pts Robert Parker)
Cairanne “Maximilien” 2010: $29.00 -$26.00 - Copious
aromas of underbrush, loamy soil, sweet kirsch, black currants and spice
box are followed by a spicy, peppery wine with excellent fruit, intensity and
density as well as a medium to full-bodied style. (92pts Robert parker)
Bruniers
Pigeoulet 2010: $26.50 -$23.00 - From top Chateauneuf-duPape producers Vieux Telegraphe. A blend from two vineyards, one by the
river next to Chateauneuf and one in the Vaucluse. Great quality here.
Lafond
Côtes du Rhone 2010: $21.00 -$18.00 - A real pleasure bomb,
with loads of fruit (black cherries and raspberries). It is everything a Cotes
du Rhone should be.
Lirac 09: $29.00 -$26.00 - This fresh, floral style offers a violet
note to lead the way for lively blackberry and red currant fruit, backed by a
lingering anise note.
Pesquie
Côtes du Ventoux “Terrasses” 2010: $23.50 -$21.00 Stunning dense bluish/purple colour with notes of sweet blueberries, black
cherry liqueur, licorice, incense. Amazing texture, succulence, fabulous
fruit intensity, vivid purity and a vigorous, long, fresh finish. (94pts Robert
Parker)
Côtes du Ventoux “Quintessence” 09: $39.00 -$35.00
- Dense opaque ruby/purple colour followed by sweet aromas of
blackberries, blueberries, charcoal, and acacia flowers. Dense, thick,
unctuously textured, exuberant, and ostentatious.
Côtes du Ventoux “Artemia” 07: $60.00 -$52.00 - A dark,
toasty style, with alluring espresso, warm fig paste and raspberry ganache
aromas and flavours, but stays silky, fresh and stylish, with enticing anise,
violet and graphite notes stretching out the lengthy finish. (92 pts Wine
Spectator)
Usseglio
Côtes du Rhône 09: $39.00 -$35.00 - From a top Chateauneuf
producer this would surprise many in a blind tasting, as it punches well
above its classification. A supercharged Côtes du Rhône.
Apéritifs
ORDER NO
W!
Distilleries de Provence
Taking time with food and wine is the essence of the French
way of life.
There is always something to tickle the palate and enchant the
brain. And Distilleries de Provence have an amazing range of
wine based aperitifs, to enjoy before dinner.
Made of wine infused with fruit, they are perfect for when it's
time to relax and slow down, served on ice, or with a dash of
soda water.
750ml bottle - RRP$39.00 - now $36.00
Gentiane de Lure: one of the oldest recipes from Distilleries de Provence. Wine based aperitif, infused with citrus and gentiane roots
Orange Colombo: sweetened wine flavoured with oranges, spices, and a cinnamon infusion.
Rinquinquin: peach wine, with strong peachy flavours, balanced sweetness and rich mouthfeel.
Noix St Jean: Red wine based aperitif with hints of walnut, cinnamon and nutmeg.
The Grand Cru of Pastis: Henri Bardouin - 700ml RRP$65.00 - now $60.00
One cannot imagine France without Pastis. This aniseed flavoured aperitif is everywhere, while Kiwis have a beer after work the French have Pastis. Of all
the different brands there is only one they call the Grand Cru and that is Henri Bardouin, the only pastis to win a Gold Medal at the Concours in Paris.
Made in Forcalquier by the Distilleries de Provence,
it stimulates the palate without anesthetizing it.
Henri Bardouin is definitely a pastis that is really
meant to be savoured.
On a hot day there is nothing more refreshing than
1/3 Pastis 2/3 iced water.
Gastronomie Locale
Délices du Lubéron Tapenades
Tapenade is a specialty of Provence and in 1993, the “Délices du
Luberon” company was created, using the very popular tapenade
recipe of Odette Msica. With her whole family, she has developed a full
range of tapenade spreads and other ingredients for provencal dishes.
Tapenades are delicious served on crostinis or bread and can also be
used in numerous recipes.
13 Flavours available:
Tapenades: Green Olive, Black Olive
Spreads: Red Pesto, Artichokes, Courgettes with Parmesan,
Anchoiade, Fig Confit, Harissa, Aubergines, Red Pepper, Sweet Olives,
Melet (anchovy & fennel), and Aioli...
New Flavours:
• Pistou Rouge / Red pesto, made from red basil leaves, olive oil,
garlic and herbs– classic provencal flavours.
• Courgettes Parmesan—a tasty spread of purée courgettes with
sundried tomatoes, herbs, olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
90g glass jar - $6.50 each
Also in the range - wonderful Antipasti products. Sundried tomatoes,
Artichokes in oil, Preserved Lemons, whole Picholines Green Olives,
and whole Black Olives with herbs.
Antipasti $14.50 / 200g jar
Olives $18.00 / 240g jar
Banon AOC - Raw goat’s milk cheese
From the little village of Banon in Provence, this is one of France’s most
famous goat cheeses. Born in 1270, and made with unpasteurized milk,
it is easily recognizable with its Chestnut leaf wrapping it completely.
The local farmers traditionally keep their cheeses by wrapping them in
leaves. They pick the “browner” leaves, which have a lower content of
tannins and soak them in a local eau-de-vie, before wrapping the cheese,
and tying it up with raffia. As the cheese ripens it acquires an extra
woody flavour.
$17.80 each
The cheese is soft, with a creamy or bronze colour depending on the age,
with a faint lactic smell and mild fruit flavours. It is a cheese with character
that needs ripening: Banon lovers like it better when patches of mould
appear under the leaves.
After a long battle, it was granted the AOC status in 2003.
This cheese is only available in Auckland.
Visit our website for more information
www.mvauron.co.nz
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