SUN KISSED – WINES

posted in: Uncategorised | 0

SUN KISSED – WINES

Snow in February, sunshine in March, rain in April, cold and hot in May, and the sun ‘kissed’ by the planet Venus in June, something which we will never see in our lifetime again. So, in anticipation of some warm sunshine, and dining al fresco, I am suggesting a gourmet white from Limoux and a ‘sexy’ rosé from Provence. For those impromptu barbeque evenings, I have chosen a rustic red from the Languedoc – perfect with meaty sausages, chillied chicken wings, and home made spicy beef burgers.

Clos Beylesse, Domaine de l’Abbaye ; Rosé de Provence, 2011.

A couple of clients recommended this having tasted it in the caribbean. One of those elusive wines – in a sexy blue bottle.

A lovely rose petal robe, with aromas of red summer fruits. Refreshing acidity, full of flavour with a tremendous burst of fruit on the mid-palate – freshly picked raspberries and very ripe strawberries. Endless finish which doesn’t want to let you go. Perfect aperitif served not overly chilled and ideal with lobster.

Château de Gaure; « Cuvée Oppidum » 2011, Blanc Limoux

Chardonnay, Chenin, Mauzac.

Recommended by a client who discovered this in Monaco. If the label reflects its contents, then it must be exceptional, were my thoughts.

Intense gourmet aromas – with the honey, buttery tones of the chardonnay dominating, accompanied by ripe peaches, apricots and nectarines.

The structure is amazing from the minute it touches your lips to the very long finish. Lovely flavours of peaches and cream, laced with honey, yet toned down with its minerality.

Exceptional balance between its alcohol, its complexity of flavours, its fresh acidity, its creamy texture, and its streak of minerality.

Lou Belvestit, Côtes du Thongue, 2009, « La Maem »

100% carignan. 70 yr old vines.

A ‘rustic’ wine with aromas of musk, garrigue, (rosemary, fennel, lavender and thyme),and wild berries, reminiscent of walking through wild countryside .

Palate is dry with savoury tannins, and an interesting ‘earthy’ texture. With flavours of herbs and wild berries and a muskiness, similar to the nose. Lingering herbal, spicy finish. Perfect with a barbeque.