This impressively balanced wine is 90% Roussanne and 10% Viognier, and displays a remarkable tension between fruit—peaches and oranges—and mineral, between ripeness and acidity. The only quibble is that it fades a bit quickly on the finish. Drink now and into the first half of 2012.
— J.C.
(12/15/2011)
A reserve selection that’s seen some barrel aging, but not too much. The toasty, chocolaty oak is hardly noticeable under a firm wallop of cherry-berry fruit that turns velvety on the palate. Some softly bitter tannins creep in on the finish, letting you know that the best is yet to come. Pick up a few bottles and drink them over the next couple of years.
— J.C.
(12/31/2000)
Wow. This classy, ripe chateau-bottled rosé is from the eastern Langeudoc, sometimes called Chateâuneuf-du-Pape South. Mainly Syrah with a little Grenache, it was fermented in steel to preserve freshness, and oak-aged. Smooth and ripe in cherries, with fresh Provençal herbs and a hint of flowers, it has minerally acids and tons of finesse. Full enough to drink with…
— S.H.
(11/15/2004)
Subtle cinnamon and clove notes are layered over dark fruit in this easy-drinking red. It’s plummy and spicy on the palate, even showing some peppery nuances and soft, well-ripened tannins, yet still gives an impression of rusticity. Drink now–2015.
— J.C.
(12/15/2011)
A blend of 65% Grenache Blanc and 35% Roussanne, this is a fresh, lively blend, imbued with understated orange and melon fruit flavors and a slightly briny note. Drink this refreshing, medium-bodied white over the next 6–9 months.
— J.C.
(12/15/2011)
Rather neutral aromatically, somewhat surprising for a blend of 55% Cinsaut, 20% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre and 5% white grapes. This is very citrusy on the palate yet richly textured, with some lime-like greenish notes. Drink now.
— J.C.
(12/15/2011)
Exhibits superripe Grenache aromas and flavors of apricots and cherries, all in a midweight format. Some peppery notes chime in on the finish, adding welcome spice to this otherwise soft and fruity wine.
— J.C.
(12/31/2000)
This medium-bodied blend of Cinsaut, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Grenache features bright raspberry and lime notes alongside a touch of apple. Very crisp; on the lean side for a Costières de Nîmes rosé.
— J.C.
(12/15/2011)