Forming a corridor between the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, the Rhône Valley extends over six French departments: Ardèche, Drôme, Gard, Loire, Rhône and Vaucluse. The region draws its strength from this rich and powerful river, which shapes its landscape and molds its character.
Castel Chateaumar estate dates back to Roman times and has been stewarded by the Souret Family for three generations, always with the greatest respect for nature and using no weedkiller. The family estate is located near Orange, in the heart of the production area of the Côtes du Rhône. The vineyard is naturally made up of several noble grape varieties, including mainly Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. We will taste:
Domaine Chateaumar Cuvee Amandine Blanc '23 — 95% viognier, 5% Grenache Blanc. Bright yellow hue, with aromas of ripe white and exotic fruits with floral notes. On palate this wine is round, fruity, with a delightful freshness that lingers around aromas of orchard fruits. Aged five months in stainless steel tanks. 13% ABV. $24.99/8.50
Domaine Chateaumar Cuvee Bastien Cotes du Rhone '22 (Grenache) — From a single vineyard with 50+ year-old Grenache. Deep, dark purple, almost black in color, the wine surprises with its high-toned raspberry, strawberry, and floral aromas of youth. Upon drinking, the dark flavors hinted at by the color emerge — raspberry ganache, blackberry preserves, black pepper, anise, and spice. Firm tannins add solid structure to the wine, but are already integrated and seamless, making this a joy to drink right now, but a candidate for a few years of bottle age. 14.5% ABV. $24.99/8.50
Domaine Chateaumar Cuvee Vincent Cotes du Rhone '22 (Syrah) — Made from 50+ year-old vines growing on two parcels bordering Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Its unusual composition of 100% Syrah imbues it with the smoky aromas and meaty, savory flavors more associated with the legendary wines of Hermitage and Côte-Rotie in the Northern Rhône, but with the generosity of tart cherry, blackberry, blueberry, and dark spices one expects from the more lush Southern Rhône. A rich and complex wine. 14% ABV. $24.99/8.50
See you Friday!