Wine With Wanda

Ooh La La in a Glass: Eight Enchanting Rosé Wines from France

After many false starts, it seems that springtime has finally arrived. A beautiful bottle of rosè wine is the perfect way to toast the sunshine and balmy breezes. I drink rosè year-round but there's no denying that these pretty pink wines are particularly suited to the flirty and vibrant mood of the warmer seasons. While wonderful rosé wines are made around the globe, the current pink obsession was fueled by wines from France, especially the pale beauties of Provence. To kick off rosé season in style, start with my selection of eight elegant French wines from Provence, Champagne, Languedoc, and Côtes du Rhône. Go ahead and drink la vie en rose! 


Champagne Bruno Paillard Extra Brut Rosé Première Cuvée ($70) 
What better way to celebrate spring than with an exceptional bottle of rosé bubbly? Mostly Pinot Noir with a kiss of Chardonnay, this delightfully dry champagne is refreshing, pristine, and joyful. The superb quality of the grapes and Paillard's perpetually precise winemaking are apparent in each sip. Absolutely worth the splurge! 



Hecht & Bannier Côtes de Provence Rosé 2017 ($18)
Consistently delicious year after year, this is a superb expression of a classic Provençal rosè. Don't let the pale color fool you, there's nothing meek about this blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Vermentino. Fresh and exuberant fruit flavors of white cherry, canteloupe, and peach are balanced by lively acidity and a streak of minerality. Crisp and refreshing! 

Château Roquefeuille Rosé In The Air, Côtes de Provence ($22.50)
Paler than pale but full of flavor and a charmingly poetic name, this expressive rosé from the heart of Provence twirls across the palate with grace and confidence. A fresh, fruity, and flirty blend of Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache, and a touch of Rolle (Vermentino), this is an elegant thirst-quencher.


 
Hecht & Bannier Languedoc Rosé 2017 ($13)
Rosé wines from Languedoc are often richer in color and a bit more robust than those from Provence. A blend of Syrah, Cinsault, and Grenache; the fruity and round nature of this juicy rosé is revved up by a subtle kick of spice. 

Domaines Paul Mas, Côte Mas Rosè Aurore 2017 ($12.99)
A well-known name in Languedoc winemaking, Domaines Paul Mas delivers a taste of Luxe Rural, an appreciation of life's simple pleasures, with each of their wines. A super juicy and unabashedly fruity blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah; this rich and ripe rosé has loads of cherry, strawberry, and candied fruit flavors. 



Ferraton Pere & Fils "Samorëns" Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2017 ($15)
Classic and compelling, this mouth-watering blend of mostly Grenache with Syrah and Cinsault balances lively and fresh fruit flavors with impressive minerality. Elegance without attitude! 



Réserve Mont-Redon Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2017 ($15)
A fine example of how beautifully Grenache and Syrah blend together, the bright pink hue of this wine mirrors its exuberant yet balanced fruit flavors. Crisp, clean, and full of charm. 



Vidal-Fleury Côtes du Rhône Rosé ($15)
Cinsault, Syrah, and Grenache are a winning combination in this intriguing rosè. Delicate but not one-note, six months of lees aging imbue it with a captivating tinge of complexity and texture. 

Sophisticated Sip: Take An Elegant Time-Out with Delamain Cognac

 

Charles Braastad, Managing Director, is the 9th generation to produce Delamain Cognac. 

One of my favorite teachers would jokingly promise us precocious teenagers a snifter of his finest Cognac as a reward for a particularly insightful comment. His classroom manner may raise eyebrows today but it seared the impression that Cognac was the tipple of choice for the elegant and erudite as they sat by fireplaces reading great works of literature. That Masterpiece Theatre-ish image of Cognac has always stayed with me but a recent tasting with Charles Braastad of Delamain Cognac reminded me that just like my adored teacher, Cognac is classic but far from stuffy. 

Delamain may not be as well-known to the masses as the Cognac brands that are name-checked in pop music and splashed in glitzy ads but they are highly regarded by aficionados and their roots run deep in the region. In Cognac, the Delamain name can be traced back to 1625 and in 1639 their ancestor Nicolas Delamain was knighted by Charles I and received the coat of arms that adorns their bottles of Cognac. Truly a family business, today Delamain is managed by Charles and his cousin Patrick Peyrelongue, both direct descendants of James Delamain who charted the family's future as Cognac producers in 1762 when he partnered with his father-in-law.



Delamain emphasizes quality over quantity and Charles said that it takes them a year to produce what the bigger brands produce in two days! But what they do produce is exceptional. Delamain Cognac is made exclusively from Grande Champagne eau-de-vie. The Cognac region, located 60 miles north of Bordeaux on France's coast and split by the Charente River, is divided into six different sub-regions (Crus) and Grande Champagne is officially considered the very best. Not to be confused with the sparkling wine Champagne, Grande Champagne is named for its chalky soil, which is also common in the land of bubbly. Cognac begins its life as wine produced from Ugni Blanc grapes. These very thin and acidic wines don't have enough finesse to drink as is but magic happens when they are double-distilled to create the high-alcohol eau-de-vie that will be aged in French oak to become the brandy known as Cognac.


The cellars at Delamain 

While some producers manipulate their Cognacs with caramel to enhance their color and sugar to boost sweetness, Delamain prefers a less interventionist approach and Charles said, "You don't have to add anything, you just have to wait. This is not commercial Cognac." It takes beaucoup patience for Delamain cellarmaster Dominique Touteau to craft their Cognacs - the minimum age of any Delamain used in a blend is 20 years.

 

Location is also one of Delamain's key assets and their aging cellars benefit beautifully from their proximity, 150 yards, from the banks of the Charente River - it naturally balances humidity and rates of evaporation. Once casks have reached their peak, the cellarmaster begins the blending process. While others dilute their Cognacs with water, Delamain brings the final blend down to consumption strength by the fractional addition of extremely old Cognacs from which much of the alcohol has evaporated. The blended elements spend two years in the cellar to mature in unison before bottling. There are no shortcuts at Delamain - patience, expertise, and passion are essential. 

So how does Delamain taste? My past experience with Cognac has not always been pleasurable and I've often found them too strong and aggressive. But I'm also a big believer in sipping out of your comfort zone and my love of wine has actually enhanced my appreciation of spirits. Delamain expresses a tangible connection with the grape instead of obliterating its essence with oak and alcohol. Deftly balancing the strength and complexity of fine Cognac with freshness and finesse, Delamain is Cognac that I can sip with pleasure. And although many, including my beloved teacher, love the drama of a big-bowled snifter, follow Charles' expert advice and sip Cognac from a small & thin tulip-shaped glass. The right glass really does enhance Cognac's aromas and how the flavors are perceived on your palate. Cognac isn't for guzzling, it is a drink that requires you to spend time savoring its charms as it reveals each layer and nuance. Delamain Cognac is an elegant and timeless time-out from the craziness of modern life.


Delamain Cognac Pale & Dry X.O ($119.99)
The palest X.O Cognac on the market, Delamain Pale & Dry is a great introduction to their minimalist approach of not manipulating their Cognac with caramel and sugar and proves Charles' sage advice to "never judge a Cognac by its color." A blend of 20-25 year old Cognacs that are blended together and then aged in bottle for another 2 years, Pale & Dry is a luminous shade of amber. Quite light and graceful on the palate with flavors of peach and apricot and a subtle hint of spicy clove, this is a Cognac that can be appreciated by newbies and aficionados. An impressively pure expression of Grande Champagne Cognac. (Note: XO stands for Extra Old. Legally, XO Cognacs cannot contain any eau-de-vie less than 6 years old. Clearly, Delamain exceeds this minimum requirement.)

Delamain Cognac Vesper X.O ($199.99)
Charles describes Vesper as a "meditative Cognac" to enjoy by the fireplace, cigar optional! A blend of 30-35 year old Grande Champagne Cognacs, it is darker and deeper than Pale & Dry. Sultry and rich with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and herbs, it is full-bodied, but not overpowering, with an impressively lingering finish that is a Delamain signature. 



Delamain Cognac L'Aigle X.O ($189.99)
Adorned with the eagle from the Delamain family crest, L'Aigle XO takes you on a sensory adventure. A big and bold Grande Champagne Cognac that elegantly balances complexity and richness with levity and grace, L'Aigle is an impressive tapestry of floral, nut, fruit, spice, and chocolate flavors. 
 

Best-Dressed Bubbly: Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Returns for 90th Oscars®

image courtesy of Piper-Heidsieck

Few are nominated, and even fewer walk the stage in victory, but everyone at the 90th Oscars® will drink like a winner thanks to Piper-Heidsieck! The most-awarded Champagne house of the century returns to the world's most glamorous red carpet as the sole Champagne to be served during the 90th Oscars awards season. To mark the milestone occasion, Piper-Heidsieck has created a stunning limited-edition magnum that captures the elegance of Hollywood's Golden Age. This best-dressed bottle is engraved with "90th Oscars®" and adorned with a 360-degree golden appliqué that evokes the Art Deco architecture of legendary Los Angeles theaters like the Crest, Pantages, and the Wiltern. After all, a beautiful bubbly deserves a beautiful bottle! 


In addition to the awards ceremony on March 4th, Piper-Heidsieck Champagne will be poured at the Oscars Nominees Luncheon, Governors Ball, and other events hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Los Angeles, New York, and London. Alas, the limited-editon Oscars magnum is not for sale, but you can still sip like the stars because the wine within the bottle is the widely-available and acclaimed Champagne Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut. A seductive and superb wine to savor while you watch the Oscars, Piper-Heidsieck connects you to a long Hollywood tradition - Marilyn Monroe famously started her day with a glass of Piper-Heidsieck and this iconic Champagne's strong connection to cinema dates back to 1933! 

A Sip of Sunshine on a Winter's Day: The Wonderful Wines of Vouvray

Yes, I tasted them all! A selection of corks from a recent Vouvray extravaganza. 

Chilly winter days may increase our cravings for hearty red wines, but there are many moments when I find myself wanting the lightness of a refreshing white. A delicious reminder of warmer and sunnier days, crisp white wines are also a way to keep your cool in overzealously heated rooms and even cut through the heaviness of winter cuisine. One of my favorite year-round white wines is Vouvray. Produced from Chenin Blanc (also known as Pineau de la Loire), Vouvray hails from the Loire Valley region of France. Vouvray may be unfamiliar to many consumers but its roots can be traced back to the 4th century. 

Chenin Blanc grapes
image courtesy of Wines of Vouvray

Chenin Blanc is found in other wine regions (South Africa has some impressive offerings) but Vouvray winemakers were the pioneers in crafting Chenin Blanc wines in a range of styles: sparking, still, dry, and sweet. Ranging in color from straw yellow for sparkling wines to golden amber for mature sweet wines, young Vouvray often reveals notes of rose, quince and acacia. As it evolves, Vouvray displays aromas of apricot, candied fruit and honey. Even as it ages, Vouvray maintains freshness because of Chenin Blanc's vibrant acidity. Beautifully crafted and generally quite affordable, elegant Vouvray is so easy to love. Get started on your exploration of Vouvray with one of these charming wines. 

Fines Bulles (Sparkling): Domaine de la Racauderie,
Jean-Michel Gautier Vouvray Brut NV ($18)
Delightfully dry with fine bubbles, this sparkling 100% Chenin Blanc beauty is made in the same method as Champagne. Vibrant and zesty with flavors of fresh apples, golden pears, and a hint of crusty brioche.



Sec (Dry): Domaine Vigneau-Chevreau, Cuvée Silex 2015 ($25)
Made from organic grapes, this crisp and clean Chenin Blanc envelops the palate in pristine flavors of honey, chamomile, and lemon.



 Demi-Sec (Medium Dry): Domaine de la Chataigneraie, Benoît Gautier, Vouvray de Gautier 2016 ($14)
A satisfying bridge between dry and sweet, this wine beautifully expresses the richer side of Chenin Blanc. Great minerality and flavors of creamy lemon curd, crisp apples, and a touch of spice. 



Moelleux (Sweet): Domaine Huet, Le Mont 2003 ($75)
Decadent, rich, and sweet but not cloying thanks to energetic acidity, this superb example of sweet Chenin Blanc is a splurge that shows how beautifully these wines can age. Savor its gorgeous flavors of ripe quince, citrus, and honey. 

Champagne is Always in Fashion: Toast the Season in Style with 3 Chic Bubblies!

In a world full of wonderful sparkling wines, Champagne remains the standard by which all others are judged. Sophisticated and festive, Champagne instantly adds glamour to any occasion. Choosing the right bottle of bubbly can feel overwhelming but when shopping for Champagne remember the golden rule: Champagne only comes from Champagne, France. Winemakers around the globe have adopted the Champagne method of creating bubbles via a second fermentation in the bottle but Champagne is more than a technique, it is a unique cultural legacy and expression of terroir.

The pop of the cork, dancing bubbles, and sublime taste make Champagne a must for your holiday celebrations. The large and globally known Champagne houses make great wines but this season I also wanted to shine a spotlight on three smaller producers: Bruno Paillard, Collet, and Boizel. They may not be household names (yet), but they make sensational Champagne. 

"Champagne is my passion. It is my life. I was born here and I will be buried here." - Bruno Paillard

There is a real gentleman behind Champagne Bruno Paillard and he makes some very fine bubbly. Monsieur Paillard founded his namesake Champagne house in 1981and crafts wines that are precise and full of passion. The Paillard family has been growing Champagne grapes in two Grand Crus villages since 1704 and this intimate knowledge of their terroir provides an inimitable foundation for producing expressive and elegant wines. 

Champagne Bruno Paillard Extra Brut Première Cuvée ($50) is a seductive introduction to the Paillard style. Made exclusively of wine from the first pressing and aged at least 3 years on the lees, this delightful bubbly has exceptional freshness, purity, and structure. Full-bodied yet graceful, this blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier is the perfect balance of vibrant fruit, chalky minerality, and toasty brioche.



The gentlemen of Champagne Collet: Pascal Boye (VP, Sales & Marketing, North America) and winemaker Sébastien Walasiak. 

Founded in 1921, Champagne Collet has embraced the sexy elegance of the Art Deco era as a part of their identity. Their vineyards in Aÿ, in the heart of the Champagne region, consist primarily of Premier and Grand Crus. Known for aging their Champagnes for years beyond the minimum aging requirements, Collet's wines are luxurious and nuanced. 

Champagne Collet Collection Privée 2006 ($70) is an exceptional expression of that year's harvest. A Champagne of great power and purity, this blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir shows how beautifully well-crafted Champagne can age. Still vibrant, the years have added appealing richness and depth to this bubbly. Earthy and elegant, this Champagne has tremendous complexity and  personality.



Evelyne Roques-Boizel's family has been making Champagne since 1834 and it remains a family endeavor. Boizel knows that there are no short-cuts in making quality Champagne and from the vineyard (the finest cru sites) to the cellar (long lees aging), their wines reflect attention to detail. 



Champagne Boizel Joyau de France 2000 ($150)
The flagship of the Boizel collection, Joyau means jewel and like an heirloom diamond, this Champagne is extravagant but not ostentatious. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Joyau is aged 14 years sur lie and  has developed intriguing herbal and savory flavors that meld seamlessly with exuberant acidity and luscious fruit. A very special bubbly! 

 

Provence on My Mind and in My Glass: 5 Rosés for Sultry Summer Days

image courtesy of Wines of Provence

From the sapphire blue waters of the Mediterranean to the vivid lavender fields of the Luberon, the colors of Provence are forever embedded in my memory. I can't even begin to count how many glasses of pale pink rosé I sipped during my 2013 visit to southeast France but it seemed to endlessly flow like spring water.

Rosé-mania is sweeping the globe and virtually every wine-producing region in the world has their own version of rosé wine but Provence remains the leader and is the only region to dedicate 89% of their wine production to rosé! The United States is second only to France in consumption of rosé and 43% of Provençal rosé wines, a stunning 16 million bottles, are exported to the USA each year.


If you're visiting NYC, Miss Paradis in Soho serves creative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that pairs beautifully with their rosé-centric wine list. 

Rosé wines from Provence are generally delightfully dry and should not be confused with sugary sweet blush wines like white zinfandel. Pale but full of lively fruit flavor, Provençal rosés are wonderful year-round but their appeal on a hot summer day cannot be denied. Perfect as an apéritif, rosés from Provence are also incredibly food-friendly and pair perfectly with vegetarian dishes, seafood, roast chicken with Mediterranean herbs, and spicy Asian and South Asian foods. 


Château de l'Escarelle "Les Deux Anges" 2016 ($16)
A pale shade of rose-petal with full, crisp, and lingering flavors of strawberry and redcurrant. 

Château de Berne "Grande Récolte" 2016 ($22.99)
Fruity and crisp with round flavors of white peach, apricot, and a hint of wildflowers. 


Domaine Sainte Marie Cuvée "Paparazzi" 2016 ($29.90)
A bold and smooth rosé with exuberant flavors of ripe peach, juicy apricot, and wild flowers.


Mirabeau "Etoile" 2016 ($34.99)
Luscious and fruity citrus and peach flavors with a crisp touch of flintiness. 

 Château d'Esclans Rock Angel 2016 ($35)
Worth the splurge, this luminous pink beauty has vibrant acidity and lively flavors of pink grapefruit and raspberry. 

To learn more, visit the Wines of Provence website. Cheers!

Sip Your Way to a Saint-Tropez State of Mind with Château Minuty Rosé

   image courtesy of Château Minuty

Saint-Tropez conjures up visions of blue water, bronzed jetsetters, and an ever-flowing supply of rosé wine. Even if your travel plans this summer won't take you to the south of France, you can experience a taste of St-Tropez with the superb rosé wines of Château Minuty. Founded in 1936, Minuty has always been a family business and today it is managed by the founder's grandsons François and Jean-Etienne Matton. One of the last family-owned estates in the region, Château Minuty overlooks the Bay of St-Tropez, in the renowned Côtes de Provence. I recently had the pleasure of sharing a few bottles of Château Minuty rosé at Gotham Bar & Grill with François when he was visiting New York City.

François Matton, grandson of the founder of Château Minuty. 
image courtesy of Château Minuty

I was impressed not only by the quality of the Minuty wines but also the down-to-earth attitude of François and his belief that wine is meant for sharing and bringing joy to our day. Château Minuty is the last estate in Côtes de Provence to harvest their grapes entirely by hand and all of their grapes are grown chemical-free and utilizing sustainable practices. This minimal intervention really allows the essence of the grapes and terroir to shine through. Château Minuty's portfolio elegantly shows that rosé has many different expressions and is not a one-note wine. 

"M" de Minuty 2016 ($20) is Château Minuty's most accessible everyday rosé - perfect as an apéritif and paired with light salads and simple seafood dishes like shrimp cocktail. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, "M" is dry and smooth with vibrant acidity and bright, but not overwhelming, flavors of white peach, pink grapefruit, and blood orange. 

A blend of Grenache and Tibouren, Rose et Or 2016 ($40) is a step up in complexity with fuller body and more concentrated flavors of pink grapefruit and white peach. Absolutely luscious with lively acidity, this more robust rosé immediately made me crave a savory saffron and garlic infused bouillabaisse (traditional Provençal fish stew from Marseille). Rose et Or would also pair beautifully with spicy Asian food, paella, and grilled lobster.  


Cuvee 281 2016 ($75)

Ok, I know you're probably thinking "a $75 rosé, that's crazy!" Clearly, Cuvee 281is not a "rosé all day", TV binge-watching, happy hour wine but something much more special. Sourced from 25-year-old Grenache vines and blended with Cinsault and Syrah, Minuty describes the limited-production 281as the highest expression of their estate. Balancing elegance with exuberance, Cuvee 281 almost drinks like a red wine while maintaining the levity of rosé. Intense but balanced flavors of white peach and melon meld superbly with crisp minerality and a savory hint of the sea. The name 281 is inspired by the shade of Pantone blue that resembles the striking blue waters of the Mediterranean and the bold skies of St. Tropez. Fittingly, the bottle is adorned with a dramatic swoosh of Pantone 281. Cuvee 281 has enough structure and body to pair with more substantial foods like scallops and seafood risotto. Even a salad topped with rare and thinly sliced red meat won't overwhelm this rosé.

image courtesy of Château Minuty

If you're planning a trip to Saint-Tropez, Château Minuty welcomes guests at their tasting room and boutique. Cheers! 

Taste the Terroir: The Bordeaux Wines of Château Olivier

Surrounded by moats and an immense forest, Château Olivier is a fairy-tale setting rooted in the reality of serious winemaking. Owned by the Bethmann family since 1886 on a property dating back to the Middle Ages, Château Olivier is fully committed to crafting wines that express the diversity of their terroir in Bordeaux -- their estate has thirteen different soil types that beautifully influence the flavor profile of their wines. A Grand Cru Classé de Graves in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, Château Olivier is classified in red and white wines. 

Bordeaux's legendary status often intimidates consumers but you don't have to be a wine geek to appreciate the beauty of the wines. And contrary to popular belief, not all Bordeaux wines cost a small fortune. The wines of Château Olivier are not exorbitantly priced yet still rich in finesse and elegance. 


White: Château Olivier Grand Cru Classé 2014 ($40)
A charming and refreshing blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle that is a perfect match with the warmer temps and lighter foods of spring and summer. Crisp minerality adds structure to vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavors. 


Red: Château Olivier Grand Cru Classé 2015
(Bordeaux future, estimated arrival is autumn 2018, about $30. However, the 2012 vintage is currently available for $40 and the 2010 vintage for $45.)
Bordeaux is big on tradition but that doesn't mean that there isn't room for change. Mother Nature was the catalyst for a tremendous innovation at Château Olivier when a 6-hectare plot of compact gravel, the ideal soil base for Cabernet Sauvignon, was discovered on the property in 2002. This special plot, named Bel-Air, has been a major game-changer for their wines and now represents close to 25% of the Grand Vin. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot is round and juicy, the rich fruit flavors are balanced by savory and earthy accents. 

If your travels take you to Bordeaux, Château Olivier welcomes visitors -- no need to sneak in via the moat! Cheers!  
 

Around the World in Rosé: Seven Sensational Pink Wines

Get ready to drink pink - rosé season has arrived! A smart wine choice any time of year, rosé is especially enticing in spring and summer. Who can resist a crisp and refreshing glass of pretty rosè on a beautiful sunny day? Ranging in hues from barely pink to vibrant jewel tones, rosé brings a wine glass to life. Sip your way around the world with one of these seven sensational rosé wines!

Mathilde Chapoutier Grand Ferrage Rosé 2016 ($19.99)
Côtes de Provence AOC, France
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Rolle
8th generation winemaker Mathilde Chapoutier stepped out of her legendary father's shadow when she debuted her superb Provençal rosé last year. The excellent 2016 vintage proves that the talented Miss Chapoutier is no one-hit-wonder. Full and silky with vibrant acidity, this beautiful blend has tantalizing flavors of peach, grapefruit, and a touch of lavender. 


M. Chapoutier Belleruche Rosé 2016 ($14.99)
Côtes du Rhône, France
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault
 One of France's most celebrated winemakers (and father of rising star Mathilde Chapoutier), Michel Chapoutier delivers excellence once again in this superb rosé. A perfect balance of acidity, crispness, fruity fresh strawberry and raspberry flavors, and a hint of herbs.  

Lapostolle Le Rosé 2016 ($20.99)
Colchagua Valley, Chile
Grapes: Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache Mourvédre
The Lapostolle family (founders of Grand Marnier liqueur) has roots in France and bring that elegant ooh la la sensibility to their acclaimed winery in Chile. Pale as a ballerina's tutu, it is crisp and juicy with refined flavors of apricot and grapefruit. 

Il Poggione Brancato Rosato 2016 ($18.99)
Montalcino, Italy
Grape: Sangiovese 
This coppery-colored Tuscan rosé catches the eye and wows the palate. Produced by one of the founding families of Montalcino, this superb rosato is refreshing and nuanced with flavors of rich red cherries and a dash of savory saffron. 

Protea Dry Rosé 2016 ($17.99)
Coastal Region, South Africa
Grapes: Mourvédre, Shiraz, Cinsault, Grenache
Inspired by the dry rosé wines of Provence, this stylish bottle from South Africa packs plenty of zest and juicy cherry & berry flavors.  

Bodegas Valdemar 'Conde Valdemar' Rosé 2016 ($13.99)
Rioja, Spain 
Grapes: Garnacha, Viura
Sassy and fresh, this tasty vino from Spain has vibrant red fruit flavors with a touch of stone fruit and watermelon. 


Sanford Pinot Noir Rosé 2016 ($23)
Santa Rita Hills, California
Grape: Pinot Noir
A playful but elegant expression of Pinot Noir with refreshing flavors of strawberry, orange blossom, and honeysuckle.  

Stay tuned for more rosè coverage this season! 

 

Make Everyday a Celebration with Moët & Chandon Champagne

"Don't be too serious when drinking Champagne!"
- Benoît Gouez, Chief Winemaker, Moët & Chandon

Being the chief winemaker of one of the world's most celebrated Champagne houses is no easy task but Benoît Gouez brings tremendous talent and energy to his important role as Chef de Cave at Moët & Chandon -- a position he has held since 2005. Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is one of the most recognized luxury brands in the world but the company doesn't rest on their laurels. Each bottle of bubbly must consistently reflect superior quality and sophistication. 


"NV is consistency,"said Benoît. Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV (non vintage, $39.99) is a superb example of the house style. Created in 1869, it is the House's iconic Champagne and year after year it delights drinkers with its fine bubbles, vibrancy, and elegance. This level of consistency is challenging but Benoît meets it with aplomb. Impérial Brut is a classic blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay and tastes like the very fine grapes from which it is made. It is undeniably Moët & Chandon. In fact, Impérial is always blended from the three classic Champagne grapes because they are viewed as a legacy that reflects complete balance and harmony. Aged 24 months in the cellars, Impérial is a wine with energy and texture -- rich and crisp with lively citrus, pear, peach, and apple flavors that are bolstered by hints of brioche and minerality. Benoît encourages us to "celebrate everyday and don't just keep Champagne for rare and special occasions." Of course, Champagne pairs beautifully with luxury foods like caviar and oysters but Benoît advises not to be afraid to pair bubbly with simple foods like french fries and fried chicken. Champagne and fried salty foods are a decadently delicious combination. 


While non vintage Moët & Chandon is a consistently elegant option, a vintage  bubbly allows the winemaker to showcase the unique qualities of an exceptional year. The highly anticipated 2008 vintage is Benoît's creative interpretation of that year's harvest. Moët & Chandon 2008 Grand Vintage Brut ($64.99) skillfully balances freshness with rich complexity. A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the 2008 vintage was aged 7 years in the cellar and has layers of flavor - citrus, brioche, white pepper, vanilla, white peach, and almonds. Lively acidity and crunchy minerality add a sinewy structure to this impressive vintage. 


One of Champagne's many charms is that it ages magnificently. And perhaps that quality transfers to the drinker - when I told Benoît that he looked quite young he laughed and replied, "I'm older than I look. Champagne preserves." I had the opportunity to taste the 1998 and 1988 vintages with Benoît and was impressed at the nuances that the Champagnes revealed over time. The vibrancy and acidity remained intact but hints of smokiness and spice had elegantly emerged. Definitely try older Moët & Chandon vintages if you see them on wine lists - you won't be disappointed. And why not buy a few bottles of the 2008 - some to enjoy now and a bottle or two to rediscover a few years from now? You can never have too much Moët & Chandon! 

Fromage in the City: Cheese Week in New York

Cheese & wine have always been the hottest couple in the culinary world and no one has mastered the art of pairing fromage and vin like the French. The creators of Cheese Day Paris will make the Big Apple cheesy in the very best way during Cheese Week in New York (February 21-26, 2017). During Cheese Week, the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France and other chefs in New York, Philadelphia and California will spotlight cheeses from France and around the world. Participating chefs in New York include Daniel Boulud (Bar Boulud), Claude Godard (Madison Bistro), and Bernard Liberatore (Core Club). Their menus will feature dishes that creatively incorporate cheese. 


During Cheese Week, Bar Boulud's menu will feature Braised Pork Shank with Pommes Aligot, Broccoli Rabe, and Garlic Jus. The Pommes Aligot (potato purée with cheese) features Comté Juraflore Fort des Rousses cheese from Fromagerie Arnaud.

" I am honored to be a part of this well known event. I have a very special place for cheese in my heart and as a matter of fact, have conducted many pairings with cheesemonger Xavier, a long time friend of my family." -- Stephane Kandler, owner of Château Tourril 

Of course, wine will be an important part of the Cheese Week festivities. For example, Madison Bistro will be hosting a four-course winemaker dinner on February 27th with Stephane Kandler of Château Tourril in the Minervois appellation in the Languedoc region, in the south of France. Other wines featured during Cheese Week include Légende, Domaines Barons de Rothschild and Château de La Dauphine Cuvée Delphis. 

The French Cheese Board will also organize cheese, wine, and spirit tastings at their space in Soho. Other popular NYC locations participating in Cheese Week include Maison Kayser and Murray's Cheese.
 

Visit the Cheese Week website for the complete schedule of chic & cheesy activities.

Sipping Pretty: Domaine du Moulin Sparkling Mauzac from Gaillac

Domaine du Moulin's sparkling Mauzac is the kind of wine that drives wine geeks wild! This pretty sip from the Gaillac region in Southwest France is produced from the indigenous Mauzac grape and its fizzy bubbles are created using the Méthode Ancestrale - an ancient technique for producing sparkling wine that uses cold temperatures to halt the first fermentation. The wine is then bottled, fermentation resumes, and voilà - bubbles are created. Fizzy, fruity, and refreshing; Domaine de Moulin sparkling Mauzac has lively flavors of fresh peaches, green apples, and a touch of honey. Elegant yet playful, it is a great apéritif and Sunday brunch sip. Around $18. 

Toast the New Year with Joy and Light: The Magic of Sparkling Wine!

Turbulence around the globe and the loss of so many beloved cultural icons has made 2016 an emotional rollercoaster. But I refuse to overlook the moments of joy. In 2016, over countless bottles of wine, I shared dreams, laughs, hopes, fears, and secrets with friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Wine opened our hearts to each other, transported us to new places, and delighted us with its sheer beauty. I'm certain that all wine lovers, all around the world, had similar experiences. Did you? As this tumultuous year winds down, I am especially grateful for those moments of bliss and light. Champagne and other sparkling wines are the traditional way to ring in the new year, so for my final article of 2016 I'm sharing a few special sparkling wine recommendations. Happy New Year! May beautiful wine moments and adventures flow abundantly in 2017! Keep reading for information on four delicious sparkling wines. 


Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Brut NV ($99.99) 
If your resolution is to live la vie en rose, toast the new year with a bottle of this superb rosé Champagne! Produced from 100% Pinot Noir, this vividly hued and beautifully crafted bubbly seduces the eye and palate. Extraordinarily crisp with fine bubbles and exuberant flavors of red & black berries, dark cherries, orange zest, and lip-smacking minerality, this exquisite Champagne will make every day feel like New Year's Eve. 

Champagne Duval-Leroy Rosé Prestige Premier Cru Brut NV ($80)
Mostly Pinot Noir (90%) with a kiss of Chardonnay (10%), this elegant sip from the venerable house of Duval-Leroy is willowy and refreshing with flavors of fresh raspberry, lively lemon zest, and a touch of spicy ginger. Playful yet polished, this pretty rosé Champagne will kick off your new year in style! 



Champagne Collet Esprit Couture Brut NV ($120)
This beautiful bubbly pirouettes across the palate with energy and grace. A blend of Chardonnay (40%), Pinot Noir (50%) and Pinot Meunier (10%) representing Collet's finest crus, it has impressive structure, balance, and finesse. Flavors of stone fruit and citrus meld harmoniously with a tinge of minerality and voluminous texture. A sexy and sophisticated sip! 

Domaine Chandon Brut 2009 & 2011($45)
Toast the new year with a glass of Napa Valley ooh la la! Founded in 1973 by the legendary house of Möet & Chandon, the sparkling wines of Domaine Chandon eloquently express French heritage & American innovation. I recently tasted the Chandon 2008 vintage from their Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley vineyards and was impressed by its lip-smacking minerality, vibrant fruit, and robust mouthfeel. The 2011 Mt. Veeder (Chardonnay) and 2009 Yountville (Pinot Noir & Chardonnay) vintages are now available. 

For more sparkling wine recommendations, read my articles Make the Holidays Shine with Sparkling Wines: Four Festive Sips from France and Italy  and 'Tis the Season to Sparkle: Seven Sensational Champagnes.  

'Tis the Season to Sparkle: Seven Sensational Champagnes!

A beautiful bottle of Champagne is the easiest and most elegant way to take a party from blah to ooh la la! Not even Scrooge can resist the percussion of a popping cork and tiny bubbles dancing away in the glass. I love Champagne all year round but its inherent luxury and beauty make it a perfect match for holiday festivities. Champagne is joy in a glass! From small growers/producers to legendary houses, here are seven sensational non-vintage Champagnes that will add some sophisticated sparkle to your soirées. I selected non-vintage Champagnes, a blend of harvests from different years, because they are often the clearest indicators of a producer's style and the blends are crafted to maintain a certain consistency from year to year. And remember, Champagne ONLY comes from Champagne, France. Cheers! 

Champagne Collet Brut Art Deco NV ($42)
Founded in 1921, Champagne Collet has embraced the elegance and style of the Art Deco period as part of their identity. Their divine Brut Art Deco is comprised of about 20 crus, all Premier or Grand Cru.  Aged for at least four years in chalk cellars, this full-bodied Champagne has vibrant fruit flavors, crunchy minerality, and exuberant acidity. 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier.

 
Champagne Duval-Leroy Brut Reserve NV ($45)
Family owned and operated since 1859, Duval-Leroy is the largest independent house in Champagne. A blend of around 15 crus and reserve wines, this sophisticated sip has an alluring creaminess that is balanced by flavors of fresh pear and red apple with a hint of lemon zest and toasted brioche. 60% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, 10% Chardonnay. 

image courtesy of Champagne Taittinger

Champagne Taittinger Brut La Française ($50)
One of the last family owned and operated Grand Marque Champagne houses in France, Taittinger is celebrated for their exquisitely crafted bubblies that incorporate a larger percentage of Chardonnay than other large houses. As chic as a couture dress, this bubbly is a beguiling shade of pale gold with fine bubbles. Delicate but distinctive, it has lovely flavors of fresh fruit, honey, and brioche. 40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 25% Pinot Meunier

Champagne Piper-Heidsieck Brut NV ($45)
 Founded in 1785, Piper-Heidsieck is one of the oldest Champagne houses and their Chef de Cave, Régis Camus, has been named “Champagne Winemaker of the Year” a record eight times! His magic touch is evident in their non-vintage Champagne's fine bubbles, lingering finish, and balanced flavors of citrus, pear, brioche, and minerality. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay  

Pol Roger Brut Reserve White Foil NV ($50)
Want to sip like royalty? Select the bubbly that was served at the reception following the nuptials of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton (now the Duchess of Cambridge.) Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of the few Grande Marque Champagne houses that remains family owned and operated. Their delicious White Foil thrills the palate with beautifully balanced acidity, creaminess, and hints of toasty brioche. 34% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Noir, 33% Pinot Meunier

 Champagne Éric Taillet Egali'T Brut ($37)
Grape grower and Champagne producer Éric Taillet is not yet a household name but I'm certain that is about to change. A relative newcomer to the US market, Eric crafts expressive Champagnes that exude elegance and energy. The name of his Egali'T Brut is inspired by the equal proportions of Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay in the blend.  Each sip showcases a delicious balance of fruit, minerality, and acidity!

Champagne Marion-Bosser Premier Cru Brut Tradition ($44.99)
For generations, mothers and daughters, have led the house of Champagne Marion-Bosser and the tradition continues with the team of Bernadette and Elodie Marion. This impeccably structured Champagne is full-bodied yet graceful with lovely fruit and mineral flavors. 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir 

 Please note that all prices are approximate. Cheers! 

Sip Like Royalty: Fabulous Fronsac Wines from Château de La Dauphine

Once upon a time there was a lovely princess who had a craving for the finest wine in the land. The royal thirst of Maria Josepha of Saxony, the Dauphine of France and the mother of Louis XVI, led her to Château de La Dauphine in Fronsac. Surely, the reputation of these superb wines, from a vineyard that coincidentally shared her name, proved irresistible to La Dauphine. One of the oldest wine-producing areas in Bordeaux, in the 18th century wines from Fronsac were the most highly prized and expensive wines in the kingdom. 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

Today, the wines of Fronsac may not have the larger-than-life mystique (and price) of Bordeaux appellations like Margaux and St. Emilion, but the region offers high quality wines that don't require a royal budget to enjoy. One of the largest properties in Fronsac, the history of Château de La Dauphine can be traced back to the 17th century and it has only changed hands a few times. In 2015, the property was purchased by the Labrune family and they remain committed to carrying on the previous family's legacy of producing high-quality biodynamic wines that authentically express the finesse of the terroir. 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

Château de La Dauphine grows Merlot and Cabernet Franc at their 130 acre organic vineyard, located on Bordeaux's Right Bank in one of the meandering loops of the Dordogne River. The wines are produced in their ultra-modern facility that respects the integrity of the fruit. I recently had the opportunity to meet with Marion Merker, a representative of the Château, and she stated that their commitment to organic & biodynamic production "is a way to protect employees, community, and consumers." Marion also said that "wine is to share, to enjoy, to taste." I absolutely agree and with their wines priced in the $18-$35 range, Château de La Dauphine makes it easy to spread the joy!

 

 

The wines are absolutely food-friendly and paired beautifully with the meal that we shared at New York City's famed Gotham Bar & Grill. Château de La Dauphine will certainly add a certain ooh la la to your meals at home! 


Château de La Dauphine 2012 is their first vintage produced in collaboration with famed oenologist Michel Rolland and also the first year of their conversion to organic farming. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it displays that Rolland style of full-bodied but graceful wines with pure and luscious fruit. An elegant but unpretentious wine, it is velvety and smooth with rich flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant, and dark cherry. The beauty of Château de La Dauphine is that the blend is always 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, so it really allows you to explore the unique qualities of each vintage. The 2010 vintage displays fresh dark fruit flavors along with touches of licorice and spice. 2009 is a bit creamier with hints of vanilla and dried fruits. 


image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

If you're planning a trip to France, Château de La Dauphine is only 40km from Bordeaux and welcomes visitors (by appointment) for tours, workshops, and lunches. It's worth the trip - they have been awarded gold level prizes for Best of Wine Tourism and even for the lunches served in the property's various picturesque settings. It certainly sounds like everyone gets the royal treatment at Château de La Dauphine!       

Naturally Chic: The Organic Wines of Le Clos de Caveau

  Henri Bungener of Le Clos de Caveau winery

Leaving behind his cosmopolitan life as a psychologist in London, winegrower Henri Bungener now spends his days attentive to the needs of the vines at his Le Clos de Caveau winery in the Vacqueyras AOC appellation in France's Rhône Valley. It may seem an odd career transition, but in their fragility and strength, perhaps wine grapes and people have more in common than we care to admit. And patience and attentiveness are certainly essential qualities in both psychologists and winegrowers.

image courtesy of Le Clos de Caveau

Also, like people, behind every wine bottle is a story. The story of Le Clos de Caveau began in 1976 when Henri's parents Nicole and Gérard Bungener purchased the property from famed English wine merchant Stephan Spurrier. (Spurrier famously organized the legendary Judgement of Paris blind tasting competition in 1976.) Certified organic since 1989, Le Clos de Caveau was quite ahead of their time when they began farming without chemicals in 1980. Henri took over the winery in 1994 and has lived there full-time for a decade. 


Le Clos de Caveau Lao Muse 2012 paired beautifully with Vinatería's dish of Ossobucco of Wild Boar Shank served with a Cassoulet of White Beans, Chorizo, and Gremolata. 

I had the pleasure of meeting Henri while he was in New York City to host a dinner at the popular Harlem wine-centric restaurant Vinatería. Known for their eclectic and excellent list of wines from around the globe, Vinateria generally showcases smaller producers like Le Clos de Caveau. Wine director Heidi Johnson is a true fan of Le Clos de Caveau and spoke beautifully of her emotional response to Henri's wines.


image courtesy of Le Clos de Caveau

Le Clos de Caveau grows Grenache and Syrah on a hillside for their Vacqueyras AOC wines. (They are also experimenting with plantings of Mourvèdre two kilometers away.) Henri is very attentive to each variety's unique response to the terroir. As one goes up the hill, the soil becomes more arid and imbues the grapes with more concentration. That individuality and sense of place is elegantly apparent in his wines. 



60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, Fruit Sauvage 2014 ($23) is produced from vines aged 10-45 years from the fields at the bottom of the slope. Naturally fermented with wild yeast, the wine is juicy and fruit-forward with flavors of blackcurrant, cassis, and subtle spice.  



More intense and robust, Carmin Brillant 2012 ($27) is also Grenache (60%) and Syrah (40%) but produced from vines aged 25-70 years from fields on the side of the hill. A deep shade of purple with rich flavors of cassis and blackberries with a hint of mountain herbs, the wine's long maceration period and 20 months of aging lend it a posh lushness.  

Lao Muse 2012 ($58) is the pièce de rèsistance. The name Lao Muse means La Muse in the old Provençal language and this wine certainly inspires me to dream of sharing a bottle with someone special, preferably in the south of France! Lao Muse is produced from the final rows at the top of the hill where the grapes develop intense and concentrated flavors. Powerful but elegant and down-to-earth, Lao Muse's sultry flavors of black cherry and blackcurrant are balanced by a hint of vanilla and spice. 

image courtesy of Le Clos de Caveau

If you're looking for beautifully crafted organic wines that truly express a sense of place, I highly recommend Le Clos de Caveau. And if you're planning a trip to the Rhône Valley, Le Clos de Caveau welcomes visitors for tours and tastings - overnight accommodations are also available. Cheers! 

Geeking Out On Gaillac: "Secret" Wines from Southwest France

 Carole Fontanier (Communications Manager, Wines of Gaillac), Fred Dex (Master Sommelier), Yours Truly, winemaker Nicolas Hirissou (Domaine du Moulin), and  winemaker Alain Cazottes (Domaine des Terrisses).

Blame it on Fred Dex, Master Sommelier - I recently spent an afternoon gleefully "geeking out on Gaillac." Fred enthusiastically describes Gaillac as "one of the geekiest wine regions in France, if not the world" for the amazing diversity of its grapes and wine styles. From international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah to lesser-known indigenous grapes like Loin de l'Oeil and and Duras, Gaillac is an absolute paradise for wine lovers in search of authentic, honest, and expressive wines that convey a sense of place.



Located in Southwest France in the heart of the Midi-Pyrénées region, the Gaillac wine-growing region benefits from Mediterranean heat and the ocean humidity of Bordeaux. Gaillac lays claim to the oldest vineyards in Southwest France - their rich tradition of winemaking goes back 2,000 years. Gaillac wines are not cookie-cutter but do share a rugged elegance that is absolutely endearing. Although Gaillac wines are not yet a household name abroad, the secret is getting out. 

Domaine des Terrisses 2014 ($15) is a delicious introduction to the Gaillac style. A blend of Loin de l'Oeil (70%), Mauzac (20%), and Sauvignon Blanc (10%), this dry white wine's lively tropical, citrus, and herbaceous flavors taste quite unique but have a tinge of familiarity. Domaine des Terrisses has been the property of the Cazottes family since 1750 and their 7 generations of experience is evident in their award-winning wines. 


Alain Cazottes, Domaine des Terrisses

Domaine des Terrisses also produces a wonderful red - Grand Tradition Rouge 2014 ($15). A balanced blend of Braucol (50%), Duras (30%) and Syrah (20%), this bold wine has a rustic elegance and flavors of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and a touch of pepper. A great match with a steak or burger. 

Domaine de la Chanade, Les Rials 2015 ($15) is undeniably Gaillac. Made 100% from the indigenous grape Loin de l'Oeil, this juicy dry white wine has exuberant flavors of mango, kiwi, peach, honey, and Meyer lemon with the finest hint of Mediterranean herbs. Loin de l'Oeil means far from the eye and inspired the name of this grape because it produces bunches that grow far from the bud. 



Nicolas Hirissou, Domaine du Moulin 

Domaine du Moulin is another impressive producer from Gaillac. The Hirissou family has been growing vines for three centuries and the winemaking tradition has passed from father to son for more than 180 years.  


Domaine du Moulin Cuvée Reserve 2013 ($12) is a spicy but light and juicy blend of Duras (60%) and Syrah (40%). Duras is native to Gaillac and produces deep red wine with fine tannins and spicy, peppery flavors. 

If you want to get way deep into the flavors of Gaillac, the award-winning Domaine du Moulin Cuvée Florentin 2014 ($29) is extreme Gaillac in the very best way. Nicolas describes this 100% Braucol wine as his baby. An old Gaillac grape, Braucol (also known as Fer Servadou in other regions) has distinctive flavors of blackcurrant and spice. It has commonly been used as a blending grape but Florentin showcases its power and elegance as a single varietal wine. Intense and nuanced, the flavors of Florentin open up beautifully and the winemaker recommends decanting or opening the bottle at least two hours before drinking. 

Gaillac is home to more than 100 wine producers who take pride in crafting wines that honestly express the terroir and traditions of this very special appellation in Southwest France. Fred Dex is right - Gaillac's unique, affordable, and delicious wines are worth geeking out on. Give Gaillac a swirl! 

To learn more, visit the Vins de Gaillac website.  

 

Warm Your Nights with Winter Whites: Five Fabulous Wines from France, Italy, New Zealand, and South Africa

Rich red wines and chilly winter nights are a match made in heaven but the right glass of white wine can also warm your spirit! From South Africa to New Zealand, here are five fabulous white wines that are always in season. Go ahead and pour yourself a glass of sunshine!  



Famille Hugel Riesling Classic 2014 ($25)
Alsace, France

With more than 370 years of experience, the Hugel Family brings an abundance of know-how and passion to winemaking. Their excellent Riesling Classic is dry but exuberant with crisp minerality and mouthwatering flavors of white peach, green apple, and a touch of citrus. A sip is reminiscent of a tender kiss from someone you adore!



Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2015 ($24)
Marlborough, New Zealand

Share the love with this gorgeous bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. Vivacious flavors of tropical fruits and white peach are elegantly supported by solid minerality and flirty acidity. A beautifully crafted wine with plenty of personality. 

Kettmeir Müller-Thurgau 2015 ($22)
Alto Adige, Italy

Fruit and spice - this full-bodied white wine is oh-so-nice. Robust flavors of white peach and hints of nutmeg and mountain herbs make this lovely vino from northern Italy a supremely satisfying sip anytime of year. 



J.J. Vincent Pouilly-Fuissé Cuvée Marie Antoinette 2014 ($29)
Pouilly-Fuissé (southern Burgundy), France

As elegant as the perfect little black dress, this delightful Chardonnay sashays across the palate with crisp minerality, vibrant acidity and fresh flavors of apple, peach, and a kiss of vanilla. Très chic! 

 De Bos Sur Lie Chenin Blanc 2014 ($16)
Wellington, South Africa

Chenin Blanc is a fantastic French varietal and South Africa produces some of the very best. De Bos's medium-bodied Chenin Blanc has tantalizing flavors of peach, pineapple, persimmon, and citrus that are balanced beautifully by a subtle vanilla cream finish. 

 

Magic in a Glass: Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosé Champagne 2007

 
No celebration is complete without Champagne and for those really special moments, only an exquisite bubbly will do. Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosé Millésime 2007($450) is such a Champagne. Piper-Heidsieck's very first vintage Cuvée Rare Rosé, this exceptional sparkling wine spent 8 years aging in the cellars before it was released. Challenging weather conditions made 2007 a tough year for producing vintage Champagne but Régis Camus, Piper-Heidsieck's award-winning cellar master, saw the potential to create something truly magnificent.


Piper-Heidsieck Champagne cellar master Régis Camus and brand ambassador Jonathan Boulangeat share the spotlight with a bottle of Rare Rosé.

There's a bit of alchemy involved in making Champagne and Rare Rosé is magic in a glass. Precise yet ebullient, structured yet graceful, Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosé captures the ethereal nature of Champagne and demonstrates the absolute importance of a knowledgeable and intuitive winemaker like Régis (he has been honored as "Sparkling Winemaker of the Year" an astounding eight times by the International Wine Challenge). A luminous shade of golden pink with hints of copper, Rare Rosé's fine bubbles pirouette in the glass. An aromatic blend of Chardonnay (56%) and Pinot Noir (44%), Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosé is rich yet still lithe, crisp, and refreshing with luxurious layers of flavor - pomegranate, hibiscus, strawberry, raspberry, and touches of vanilla, paprika, and savory herbs. Befitting its name, only 1,500 bottles of Rare Rosé 2007 were produced. 

Drinking Rare Rosé with Régis was a delicious reminder of wine's unique ability to connect people from different cultures and how Champagne can transform a business meeting into a celebration. This article actually marks my 1000th blog post and Rare Rosé struck me as the perfect topic to acknowledge the occasion. Eight years ago (the same amount of time that Rare Rosé 2007 was aged) I spontaneously started blogging as The Black Dress Traveler. I had no grand plan, I simply wanted to write about the things that I loved and escape some of the stress of my life. Writing this blog has been a rare adventure, one that I could have never scripted. I never imagined that I would be sipping Champagne with one of the world's most celebrated winemakers. Writing has changed my life and through this blog I've met so many extraordinary people, traveled to beautiful places, and sipped some mighty fine wines! I've been humbled by the warm reception that I have received from my readers and the industry. This journey has been more than I ever hoped for and I suspect that there are still some fantastic surprises on the horizon. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me along the way - I'm raising a glass of Piper-Heidsieck Rare Rosè to you. Cheers! 

Be Bordô Offers a Fresh and Modern Expression of Bordeaux Wines

Stéphane Quien, founder of Be Bordô

Don't let Stéphane Quien's polished demeanor fool you - this French vintner is a bit of a rebel. His fun and affordable collection of wines, Be Bordô, completely challenge the notion that Bordeaux is always stuffy, confusing, and expensive. Be Bordô doesn't pretend to compete with the legendary wines from Bordeaux's top châteaux but offers a playful and tasty option that won't break the bank - each bottle has a suggested price of $11.99. Although the wines are modestly priced, Stéphane is committed to quality and selected Château Merlet and winemaker Pierre Laroche as his partners in this venture. Be Bordô has access to some of the finest fruit and terroirs across all of the major Bordeaux appellations.


Stéphane is no newbie to the industry - his family's legacy as influential European merchants can be traced back to the 18th century. He describes Be Bordô as a "French alternative to New World wines" because it presents the classic grapes of Bordeaux in a more modern way. These young wines are meant to drink now and are crafted to express the freshness of Bordeaux's classic grapes instead of the influences of oak and long aging. 

Bordeaux is famous for blends and Be Bordô carries on that tradition. Be Bordô Sauvignon Blanc (Le Crisp White) is a breezy, citrusy, and refreshing blend of 85% Sauvignon Blanc with 15% Semillon. Be Bordô Merlot (Le Fruity Red) deftly combines 85% Merlot with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon to create a supple and juicy wine that pleasantly lingers on the palate. Be Bordô Cabernet Sauvignon (Le Deep Red) includes 15% Merlot  - it is a more robust wine with a touch of spice on the finish but still lively and fruit-forward.

Be Bordô also helps to alleviate the stress of pairing wine with food: each bottle includes icons with helpful pairing suggestions like Sauvignon Blanc with seafood, Merlot with pasta & poultry, and Cabernet Sauvignon with cheese & barbecue. No matter what food you choose, Be Bordô will add an easy elegance to the occasion. 

 

 

Sophisticated Sip: Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008

I don't think it's my imagination - my friends are being a little bit nicer to me since I surprised them with this spectacular bottle of Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008 ($69.99). What a beautiful wine - a week has passed and I'm still thinking about it! Delicate but substantial, precise but graceful; this sparkling rosé is the embodiment of balance. A gorgeous shade of vivid pink, this blend of Pinot Noir (46% - of which 20% is red wine), Chardonnay (32%), and Meunier (22%) elegantly expresses Chief Winemaker Benoit Gouez’s personal interpretation of this vintage year.



Every Grand Vintage is unique and the 2008 Grand Vintage Rosé marks Moët & Chandon's 41st vintage rosé release since the introduction of this wine in 1920. Aged for seven years, this extra-brut champagne displays incredible maturity while maintaining freshness and vibrancy. For anyone who thinks that rosé is not serious, one sip of this bubbly will silence them. Luscious and juicy flavors of strawberry, raspberry, blood orange, and blackcurrants are balanced by subtle hints of herbs, crisp lip-smacking minerality, and a touch of warm brioche. An incredibly versatile wine, you can pair this beauty with a wide variety of the summer season's best foods; including crab, lobster, fried clams, and ceviche! And the combination of champagne and pommes frites (french fries) can't be beat. If you're looking for a wine to toast the beauty of the season, do it in grand style with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008. Cheers!

Fabulous French Wines at a Great Price: E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Red, White, and Rosé

All summer long I've been happily sipping evidence that delicious French wines don't have to cost a small fortune. In support of my argument, I present three wonderful and affordable wines produced by respected winemaker E.Guigal from the Rhône Valley in the south of France. Founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal, today Etienne's grandson Philippe is the winemaker.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2014 ($15)
 Juicy, rich, and crisp; this white wine is an elegant thirst-quencher. A blend of Viognier (65%), Roussanne (15%), Marsanne (10%), Clairette (8%) and Bourboulenc (2%); this aromatic sip has lovely flavors of peach, honeysuckle, green apple, and citrus. Luscious and structured with a mineral core. A great match with seafood, shellfish, and poultry.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2015 ($15)
Expressive and dry, this medium-bodied rosé has layers of balanced flavor. Well-chilled but not ice cold is the best temperature to really taste its flavors of cherry, raspberry, strawberry, watermelon, orange peel, and a hint of white pepper and Provençal herbs on the finish. This blend of Grenache (60%), Cinsault (30%), and Syrah (10%) is absolutely delightful. Marcel Guigal, son of the founder and father of winemaker Philippe, has more than 50 vintages under his belt and calls the 2015 "the vintage of a lifetime." Suggested food pairings include ratatouille and quiche.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rouge ($15)
A gorgeous blend of Syrah (50%), Grenache (45%) and Mourvèdre (5%), this supple red wine has smooth tannins and rich flavors of dark berries, black cherries, violets, and a hint of spice. Pair this luscious beauty with steak, ribs, burgers, and charcuterie.

 

Related articles

Olivier Dauga Makes Wines as Vibrant as His Personality!

Winemaker Mathilde Chapoutier is Paving Her Own Way with Rosé

Ooh La La, Minervois: The Wines of Château Tourril

image courtesy of Château Tourril

The south of France is only as far as your wine glass thanks to Château Tourril. A family owned winery located in the heart of the Languedoc, Tourril produces wines in the Minervois appellation with Syrah, Cinsault, old Carignan, Grenache, and Roussanne grapes. Here are three food-friendly wines from the Château Tourril portfolio that make it easy to experience an elegant taste of the Mediterranean.


Château Tourril "Helios" 2015 AOC Minervois ($17)
Produced from 100% Roussanne grapes, this is a gorgeous white wine with layers of flavor. Lovely hints of lavender, lemongrass, green apple and bright acidity make this dry white wine an absolute delight. A great match with sea food and goat cheese.


Château Tourril "Havana" Rosé 2015 AOC Minervois  ($13)
Produced from 70% Cinsault and 30% Grenache, this pale rosé packs enough power to pair with garlicky and herb-seasoned foods. Slightly tart with cherry, watermelon, and citrus flavors.

Château Tourril "Philippe" 2011 AOC Minervois ($15)
A blend of Carignan (40%), Syrah (30%) and Grenache (30%), this is a really beautiful red wine at a fantastic price! This full-bodied beauty has a rich ruby color with a tinge of purple. Luscious flavors of blackberries, plums, and blackcurrants are balanced by a subtle touch of earth, pepper, and smooth tannins. A great match with grilled and roasted meats, and even a rosemary seasoned lamb burger!

The Wines of Southwest France are Dynamic, Diverse, and Delicious!

Fred Dex is on a mission to spread the word about the wonder of wines from the Southwest of France!

Master Sommelier Fred Dex is a treasure trove of knowledge about the wines of Southwest France but he also knows when to let the bottles do the talking! From familiar grapes like Cabernet Franc and Malbec to new-to-me varieties like Duras and Petit Courbu; I was impressed by the diversity, quality, and overall affordability of the delicious wines that Fred shared during our lively tasting.



The more than 6,000 vineyards of Southwest France cover an expansive territory of 47,000 hectares that stretches from the hills of the Massif Central to the foothills of the Pyrenees, from the banks of the Garonne River to the Atlantic beaches of the Basque country. The area boasts an infinite variety of soils and diverse micro-climates that nurture the growth of 300 grape varieties, 120 of which are native to the area and 12 of these are considered essential. The wines of Southwest France truly express terroir. The region's rich history of winemaking can be traced back to around 125 BC when the Romans first planted vineyards there.

Are you ready to take your palate on an adventure to Southwest France? Here are five fabulous wines that received high ratings from Wine Enthusiast and were featured at the recent 2nd Annual Southwest Wines of France Gourmet French Fries Competition. Yes, fries! These lovely wines aren't just for fancy foods but can easily upgrade a casual meal to fabulous!



Alain Brumont 2011 Les Jardins de Bouscassé (Pacherenc du Vic Bilh) ($15)
Wine Enthusiast: 90 points
This delicious blend of Petit Courbu and Petit Manseng is a wonderful introduction to two grapes of Southwest France. Aromatic and luscious with hints of spice, this is a beautifully balanced dry wine.

Elegant and approachable, Alain Brumont 2011 Les Jardins de Bouscassé was selected by the judges at the 2016 Southwest Wines of France Gourmet French Fries Competition as the best wine pairing with the winning fries - Carnita Fries by Chef Ricky Camacho of Añejo restaurant.


Château Lagrézette Le Rosé de Julie 2015 (Côtes du Lot) ($25)
Wine Enthusiast: 87 points
Crisp and elegant, this pale pink Malbec rosé is delightfully dry and a graceful expression of this bold red grape. Light enough to sip as an apéritif but absolutely food-friendly.


Domaine du Moulin 2013 (Gaillac) ($12)
Wine Enthusiast: 88 points, Best Buy
Fruity and juicy, this vibrant red beauty is a 50/50 blend of Duras and Syrah. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that tastes quite expensive!



Château du Cèdre Malbec 2012 (Cahors) ($25)
Wine Enthusiast: 91 points
Malbec may be synonymous with Argentina but this bold red grape is actually indigenous to Southwest France where it is known as Cot. Balancing power with finesse, this rich wine is an excellent expression of the emblematic grape of the Cahors appellation. Drink one now and keep another bottle around to open in a few years - this wine has enough structure to age gracefully.

Jean-Luc Baldés Clos Triguedina Probus Malbec 2007 (Cahors) ($67)
Wine Enthusiast: 93 points
An outstanding example of the aging ability of Malbec from the Southwest of France, this impressive wine wows the palate with rich dark fruit and velvety tannins.

330 million bottles are produced each year in the Southwest of France; there really is a wine for every taste and budget. Go ahead and give them a swirl, you won't be disappointed!  

 

 

Olivier Dauga Makes Wines as Vibrant as His Personality!

"I protect nature and then I make the wine."
- Olivier Dauga, winemaker & consultant
image courtesy of Jasmine Hsu

As soon as I set eyes on Olivier Dauga, I knew that he was no ordinary winemaker! Chicly attired from head to toe in bold patterns and vibrant colors, all signs correctly indicated that Olivier and his wines would be far from boring.

Born in Libourne, a town in the heart of Bordeaux's vineyards, Olivier comes from a family of winegrowers with a passion for farming and the land. This commitment to the environment is a core principle for Olivier and he firmly stated, "I protect nature and then I make the wine." Self-taught, he honed his winemaking skills working at famous Bordeaux properties but it was a trip to Australia, and the creativity and innovation of those New World winemakers, that inspired him to set up his own wine consultancy, Le Faiseur de Vin, in 2000. In addition to his native France, Olivier has also made wine in Spain, Ukraine, and Morocco. A former professional rugby player, Olivier brings that spirit of teamwork, humility, and quest for excellence to his work as a winemaker and consultant.

I recently had the pleasure of tasting several wines that Olivier produced and consulted on for Vinadeis. Based in the south of France in the Languedoc Roussillon region, Vinadeis is France's largest still wine cooperative group. Olivier's ability to work with winegrowers to elevate their quality without sacrificing authenticity and uniqueness is impressive. Here are three wonderful wines that showcase Olivier's magic touch.

Château de Jonquières Cuvée Cersius Rosé 2015 ($14.99)
A very pretty shade of pink, this elegant and fresh rosé beautifully blends  Grenache (60%) and Cinsault (40%). Vibrant flavors of red berries with a lively touch of citrus make it a perfect thirst quencher on a hot summer day! 


Domaine de Cazelles Verdier "Les Pierres qui Chantent" 2015 ($21.99)
100% Chardonnay, this gorgeous wine subtly wows the palate with elegant layers of flavor. Full and round with flavors of tropical fruits, luscious creme brûlée, and a hint of citrus zest, I can taste why this wine won a gold medal at the Mondial de Bruxelles competition in 2015. The Verdier family has been making wine since 1713.


 Château Notre Dame du Quatourze "A fleur d'eau" 2014 ($24.99)
A bold red blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Carignan grown on fully organic vineyards; this juicy fruit-forward wine is balanced by touches of savory spice. 



If you're planning a trip to France, you can taste a large selection of Vinadeis wines at their Wine Pavilion.

Visit www.vinadeis.com and www.olivierdauga.com for more information. Cheers!