Thaddeus went to what he called an “an outstanding wine event” recently that focused on the best wines from the south France. Of course, Chateaunef-du-Pape was a standout and the ’07 will be a great vintage.
The grenache — the workhorse of the wine — had a big, ripe raspberry fruit with excellent spice and acidity. “This fruit was really ripe and juicy, with an acidity that vibrated softly on your palate,” he said.
Hermitage, the wine, is named after the small area is the Rhone valley, which — surprise, surprise — is called Hermitage. The only grape grown there is syrah and Hermitage, the wine, is 100% syrah. The vines face the southern sky to help produce this very classy red wine with acidity and the classic pepper finish. His favorite that night: the 2007 Ferraton Pere et Fils Hermitage.
Then there was the Armagnac from Marquis de Montesquiou. It’s pricey, for sure, but will cost you less than a very good cognac. He tasted through the portfollio and, of course, the 70-year-old Montesquiou Armagnac was complex with a bouquet of honey and vanilla with a smooth finish.
For summer — yes, we know it’s sadly over and a little late — there are few things better than a great rose from Tavel. Thaddeus call this the best place in the world for rose wines. Period. Domaine La Genestiere rose ’09 was the standout of this tasting because it was juicy, good acidity and finished with some spice. What a great summer wine….for next year! Enjoy!