Jerzu Antichi Bantu Cannonau di Sardegna 2023 (Sardinia) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Cannonau di Sardegna (a.k.a. Garnacha/Grenache from Sardinia) that is a brand-new arrival at the LCBO and was part of the feature on wines from Sardinia in the August 1st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Jerzu Antichi Poderi, one of Sardinia's historically significant co-operative wineries, with deep roots in the viticultural traditions of the region that go back to the 12th century. While the cooperative itself was formally established in 1950, when a group of 18 winegrowers came together with a shared passion for wine, its history is rooted in the generations of grape growers who cultivated the vineyards of Jerzu and passed their knowledge from one generation to the next.

Today, Antichi Poderi Jerzu is made up of 408 members, all committed to fuelling a history that continues to move forward. Together, the member families tend 460 hectares of vineyards across a territory spanning 593 km² in Sardinia, the rugged Mediterranean island off Italy's western coast. Their vineyards range in elevation from 30 metres to a fairly lofty 786 metres above sea level.

Sardinia offers an extraordinarily diverse combination of hills and plains, coastal regions and inland areas, with considerable variation in topography and mesoclimate. The combination of Mediterranean maritime influences, cooling breezes, varied elevations and diverse soils and bedrock—including free-draining sands and gravels—creates highly favourable conditions for viticulture. With centuries of French and Spanish influence, the island is home to many important indigenous and international varieties, with Cannonau and Vermentino among its most important and widely planted grapes.

Antichi Poderi Jerzu is situated within the commune of Jerzu, in the province of Ogliastra, on the eastern side of Sardinia. The rugged terrain between the coast and the mountains has a long association with viticulture, particularly Cannonau, the local name for the grape commonly known elsewhere as Grenache or Garnacha. In 1972, Cannonau di Sardegna received DOC status, with Jerzu becoming one of the denomination's historically important production areas.

The co-operative winery has also been actively involved in partnerships with authoritative and recognized institutes to deepen the understanding of its territory. These studies have resulted in the identification of nine distinct sub-areas within Jerzu, each with its own particular characteristics, helping the cooperative to develop a more nuanced collection of Cannonau di Sardegna wines that express the diversity of the local terroir.

As a specialist in Cannonau (and, to some extent, Vermentino), Jerzu Antichi Poderi produces a range of wines across five distinct wine ranges, with this Bantu coming from its Selezione range. The grapes for this 100% Cannonau were grown in the Jerzu area. The vines average 20 years of age and are planted on calcareous-schist soils at approximately 400 metres above sea level, with southwest exposure.

To craft this wine, the grapes were harvested when they reached an optimal balance between acidity and sugars, typically in mid-September. Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes were destemmed and crushed, followed by eight days of maceration in stainless-steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine remained in stainless steel for 10 months of maturation, followed by a further six months in 200 hL oak barrels in order to preserve the freshness of the fruit.

The climate in Sardinia can vary quite substantially depending on where you are located. In the northeastern part of the island, there was very little to no rain throughout the season, while the summer months were warm and arid, which resulted in an early and healthy harvest. Let's see how this 2023 Cannonau di Sardegna from Sardinia is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

JERZU ANTICHI BANTU CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA 2023 - DOC, Sardinia, Italy (#51716) (XD) - $19.95
100% Cannonau di Sardegna (a.k.a. Garnacha/Grenache). The lifted, medium-high intensity nose has plummy, wild berry, dark red cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate aromas mingling with rustic earth, Mediterranean herbs and spice notes. The medium+ weighted palate is dry and lively with fresh acidity lifting the spicy, peppery, wild berry, plum, Mediterranean herbs, cherry, earth, and pomegranate flavours. Pleasing bitter notes add a savoury component on the mid-palate, while the ripe and fine tannins have some youthful, chalky grip on the back palate. Nicely balanced flavours of spice, Mediterranean herbs, and wild berry taper to schisty minerals on the long, savoury finish. Quite unique and a recommended buy to enjoy over the coming 5 years! Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Jerzu Antichi Poderi can be ordered through their Agent - DB Wine & Spirits.

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d'Arenberg The Custodian Grenache 2021 (McLaren Vale) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is this lovely Grenache from the McLaren Vale in Australia. It arrived at the LCBO as part of the feature on Summer Smart Buys in the July 18th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by d'Arenberg, a renowned and well-respected winery that was established in 1912 by Joseph Osborn in the McLaren Vale wine region of South Australia. With a long and rich history of winemaking, d'Arenberg has been passed down from one generation to the next and is currently led by Chester Osborn, the fourth generation of the Osborn family, who became Chief Winemaker at the family estate in 1984.

Today, the focus at d'Arenberg is to encourage each vineyard to showcase its personality by practicing viticulture and winemaking with minimal intervention. This is implemented by time-honoured techniques such as open fermentation, foot treading, and basket pressing, which allow the personality of the vineyard to shine. Furthermore, all d'Arenberg estate owned and leased vineyards are ACO Certified for organic and biodynamic processes. By using natural and environmentally friendly processes, this encourages strong root systems that penetrate the soil, which results in lively tannin structures, soil characters, and fine minerality. The environment, sustainability, and community are core values at d'Arenberg as they aim for net carbon zero by 2035 and pass on a sustainable business to the next generation.

Winemaking at d'Arenberg begins with Chester walking the vineyard rows and tasting grapes in order to classify and determine the ideal picking time for each individual vineyard. McLaren Vale is home to some of the oldest vines in the country, with some dating as far back as 1850. McLaren Vale also has a Mediterranean climate with a huge array of soil types, while its proximity to the ocean and cooling sea breezes make it an idyllic location for winegrowing. At the winery, each wine, from entry level to iconic, undergoes basket pressing, with all red ferments foot trod during fermentation, a labour-intensive action that is controlled, extremely gentle, and yields quality results. Importantly, all parcels remain separate until final blending.

The name of this wine comes from a time during the 1980s vine pull scheme when d'Arry Osborn refused to remove his old Grenache vineyards. Today, as keeper of nearly one-third of McLaren Vale's old bush vine Grenache, d'Arenberg has earned the title of "Custodian" of the variety.

To craft this 100% Grenache wine, small batches of grapes were gently crushed and transferred into open fermenters, after which foot treading was undertaken two-thirds of the way through fermentation. The wine was then basket-pressed and transferred into old French oak to complete fermentation and mature. The basket-fermented wine was then aged on its lees for 9 months, without any racking until final blending. After blending, it was bottled without undergoing any fining or filtration.

In McLaren Vale, the 2021 growing season began with a wet winter and spring that replenished soil moisture before a hot, dry November naturally reduced yields. Well-timed February rain refreshed the vines, while warm conditions accelerated ripening, resulting in one of the earliest harvests on record. Mild, dry autumn weather, punctuated by a few warm days in late March and early April, allowed Grenache and other late-ripening varieties to reach full maturity. From a vintage that produced both quantity and quality, along with it being considered as one of the best vintages of this century, let's see how this 2021 Grenache from Australia is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

D'ARENBERG THE CUSTODIAN GRENACHE 2021 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#713040) (XD) - $19.95
Enclosed by screw cap, this 100% Grenache has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that seems a bit tight, with deep aromas of red & black raspberry, black cherry, dried herbs, and toasted nut notes nuanced with peppery spice, stony minerals, and a touch of red florals adding further interest and complexity. On the dry, mid-weighted palate it has fresh and lively acidity, alongside ripe, fine-grained tannins with good structure. It has lovely red & black raspberry, black cherry, dried herb, peppery spice, and savoury mineral flavours. Well-balanced with juicy acids on the mid-palate leading to savoury, earthy mineral, and toasted nut notes with a slightly chalky texture on the long finish. Should dink nicely over the coming half dozen+ years and is a highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

A couple of wines by d'Arenberg are widely available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Churchill Cellars.

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Cellier des Dauphins Réserve Côtes du Rhône 2023 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Réserve Côtes du Rhône, a blend of Grenache and Syrah that arrived at the LCBO last month as part of the July 18 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône (UVCdR), a co-operative winery founded in 1965 in the southeastern French region of Drôme Provençale by a group of local grower co-operatives. Today, UVCdR unites approximately 2,300 winegrowing families across the Southern Rhône Valley, cultivating more than 12,000 hectares of vineyards to produce wines from numerous Rhône Valley appellations, including several Crus.

As one of the Rhône Valley's largest wine producers, UVCdR has become one of the region's leading co-operative groups, with Cellier des Dauphins serving as its flagship brand. Introduced in 1967, Cellier des Dauphins has grown into one of the Rhône Valley's best-known wine brands, built on the co-operative values of its founding growers. The brand reflects a commitment to quality from vine to glass, while celebrating the collective spirit that has united generations of Rhône winegrowers. Its name—"Cellar of the Dolphins"—pays tribute to the historic Dauphiné region, which bordered the Rhône Valley in southeastern France.

In the vineyard, Cellier des Dauphins growers work their vineyards every day with concrete actions in favour of biodiversity. Their winegrowers have converted 3,000 hectares to High Environmental Value (HVE) certification, and 1,350 hectares to organic agriculture. Cellier des Dauphins is also committed to eco-design of packaging and is constantly seeking sustainable solutions to packaging, along with waste reduction and preserving natural resources.

I last enjoyed this delicious Rhône red when the 2019 Cellier des Dauphins Réserve landed at the LCBO five years ago, and while that vintage was predominantly (90%) Grenache with Syrah playing a very small role, the 2023 blend shifts to 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah. The grapes were selected from their best terroir in the villages of Richerenche, Vinsobres, Puyméras, Tulette, and Saint Maurice. The vineyards are situated at altitude in the lower Pré-Alpes north of Mont Ventoux, on terraces with a cooler climate where the sunny Mediterranean climate is cooled by the Mistral winds. The soil on these terraces is composed of clay limestone formed of sedimentary rock and pebbles. To craft this wine, the grapes were harvested when extra ripe to obtain maximum aromatic concentration and natural mellowness. It was traditionally vinified with the must macerating for two weeks at a controlled temperature, followed by extended wood ageing.

In 2023, the growing season began with a very dry start from January to March, which resulted in a relatively late budburst in early April. The Mistral winds blew frequently during the period between budburst and flowering—precisely when growers would have preferred calmer conditions. On the bright side, there were welcoming rains in May and June, followed by a warm and arid summer, which climaxed to 43°C in late August, which led to some grapes suffering sunburn and maturation issues. Rain at the end of August allowed the vines to recover and the grapes to resume ripening, although the fierce heat remained until the end of the month. This was a season that suited vines grown on clay soils (under rolled pebbles). The early harvest wasn't particularly good for Grenache as sugar ripening had often got ahead of phenolic ripening, which may help explain the increased proportion of Syrah in this vintage for this wine. Despite the challenges, this is a good vintage for red wines from the Southern Rhône. Let's see how this 2023 Côtes du Rhône red is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CELLIER DES DAUPHINS RÉSERVE CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2023 - AOC, France (#14081) (XD) - $16.95
This blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah has a medium+ intensity nose that takes some coaxing to reveal a fine mix of ripe black raspberry, garrigue, peppery spice, and black cherry aromas with warm stones and scorched earth notes adding further complexity. The medium to medium+ bodied palate is dry with ripe, plummy, dark cherry, black raspberry, black cherry, blackberry, and peppery spice flavours nuanced with meaty, scorched earth, and stony minerals. It's supported by fresh, lively, and slightly tangy acidity, along with grainy textured tannins with good structure. Nicely balanced throughout with savoury black raspberry and scorched earth notes lingering on the long finish. Recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

A few wines by UVCdR bearing the "Dauphins" name are available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Churchill Cellars.

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El Goru Rosado Garnacha Tinta 2025 (Spain) - Wine Review

To celebrate Spain's World Cup final appearance, tonight's rosé wine review is a delicious, sustainable, and vegan rosé crafted with Garnacha (a.k.a. Grenache) from Spain that made its debut at the LCBO in last month's June 6th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and is still widely available both online and in-stores across Ontario.

El Goru is a range of wines produced by Ego Bodegas. The husband and wife team of Santos Ortiz and Ioana Paunescu established Ego Bodegas in 2011 after settling in the Jumilla wine region of southeastern Spain, not far from the historical centre of Jumilla. Santos is of Spanish origin, while Ioana was from Romania, and with passion and effort they had a vision to produce high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of Jumilla.

Ego Bodegas was built from the roof down on a spectacular farm in a prime, elevated area of Jumilla that was locally known as the carpenter's place. The farm is surrounded by old vineyards, with some vines over 50 years old, planted to Monastrell and offering a naturally beautiful landscape. After two years of hard work and focusing on Quality, Image, and Price, the couple launched Ego Bodegas based on a philosophy centred on ego, talento, and infinito – or self, talent, and infinity.

The wines of Ego Bodegas are crafted using a contemporary twist by combining traditional methods with modern techniques using their modern winemaking facilities to improve quality and efficiency, while continuously striving to seek out the best technology available. They cultivate approximately 20 hectares of vineyards within the Jumilla DO, all located in the provinces of Murcia and Albacete, and are planted with mostly native varieties. With a dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence in winemaking, the focus at Ego Bodegas is to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

The El Goru range is the Ego Bodegas' flagship range of wines and represents the heart and soul of the winery's identity. The name "Goru" comes from a local Jumilla nickname meaning "the big-headed one" or "big head", and adorns the label of each El Goru wine. The range was initially designed to showcase the Monastrell varietal, but now also includes wines crafted using other varieties such as this Garnacha Tinta rosé.

This dry rosé is crafted using Garnacha that was grown sustainably within the Jumilla wine region of Spain. Upon reaching maturity in the vineyard, the grapes were hand-harvested and placed in small capacity boxes in order to preserve the quality that was obtained during cultivation. This rosé was crafted using the Saigneé method, whereby the skins were macerated with the must for the time necessary to achieve the desired colour, after which the skins were removed from the tank. The juice then underwent a temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, and the resulting wine was used exclusively to create this Garnacha Rosé.

After four years of drought conditions, the 2025 vintage in Jumilla delivered an exceptional vintage that yielded high-quality grapes to produce well-balanced wines with good body, structure, and flavour intensity. The growing season began with damp conditions in March and April, followed by some hailstorms to the southeast in May. Summer heat helped ripen the grapes and led to a potentially earlier than usual harvest. From an exceptional vintage where presence in the vineyard was essential, let's see how this 2025 Garnacha rosé from Spain is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

EL GORU ROSADO GARNACHA TINTA 2025 - Vegan, Sustainable, DO Jumilla, Spain (#49815) (XD) - $14.95
Crafted with 100% Garnacha (a.k.a. Grenache), this has a medium+ intensity nose that is ripe and slightly confected with strawberry, raspberry, and red cherry aromas, plus savoury hints of stony mineral and white pepper spice. The weighty, concentrated, and medium-full bodied palate is dry with delicious ripe strawberry, red cherry, raspberry, grapefruit citrus, and peppery spice flavours. It has a slightly crunchy and viscous mouthfeel, alongside juicy, well-balanced acidity. A touch of pleasant bitterness gives way to raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and spice notes on the finish, with very good length. Recommended buy! Score: 88+ pts

A couple of other delicious wines by Ego Bodegas are available at the LCBO, while their full the range of wines can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Château d'Aqueria Cru des Côtes du Rhône Tavel Rosé 2025 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's rosé wine review is from Southern Rhone Cru of Tavel, which is typically a Grenache-based blend. As a perennial favourite of mine, I am delighted to see the latest vintage of this excellent, organic, and dry rosé arrive at the LCBO in this weekend's May 23 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, and is already widely available for purchase across the province.

It is produced by Château d'Aqueria, a benchmark estate considered to be one of the jewels of the Southern Rhône Valley that is situated in Cru of Tavel. The historic property was established in 1595 when Louis Joseph d'Aqueria purchased this prime vine-growing area of Tavel known as "Puy Sablonneux" from the monks at the Abbey in Villeneuve les Avignon. Robert d'Aqueria, son of Louis Joseph, and hereditary Count Palatine built a home on the site which was transformed in the 18th century into the Château as we know it today.

The Château and the surrounding area had been in the hands of numerous families since that time, until the estate was acquired in 1919 by Jean Olivier, a doctor of law. Jean passed the estate on to his daughters Mireille de Bez and Nicole Boccon-Gibod. Paul de Bez, son-in-law of Jean, took over management of the property. When Vincent and Bruno de Bez, the sons of Paul, began running the family business in 1984, it represented three generations of the family that put this historically significant place on the map as a stand-out property in the appellations of Tavel and Lirac.

Today, Château d'Aqueria is owned by the Guigal family as they took over the reins from the de Bez family in May 2022. While Château d'Aqueria has been practicing sustainable viticulture for many years, after the acquisition, the Guigal family announced that Aqueria would be converting to certified organic viticulture, and beginning with the 2025 vintage they began producing certified organic wines.

While Aqueria may be under new ownership, the philosophy at the estate remains the same — in search of excellence. Their goal is to also preserve the history and memory of the people who accompanied these excellent terroirs throughout the years. Furthermore, they are taking steps to bring to light the rich diversity of the estate by observing and understanding the land, while also maintaining the centuries-old tradition of conservation and respect for the vineyards. The vinification process at Château d'Aqueria is managed with exact precision so that each wine can offer the purest expression of these terroirs, and at the same time craft exceptional wines.

This rosé has been crafted for over 30 years and, for the first time in its history, it bears the certified organic designation beginning with the 2025 vintage. The wine is typically a blend of several varieties, and in this particular vintage it is composed of 50% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Clairette, 10% Mourvedre, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Bourboulenc. The grapes were grown on clayey-sandy hillsides, and upon harvest, each variety was carefully de-stemmed and chilled prior to placing in vats. The varieties were blended two-by-two during the 12 to 24-hour maceration phase in order to enhance aromatic complexity. Once the desired colour was obtained, the entire tank was bled and the marcs (grape pomace) pressed at length, which then goes into the free-run wine. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled tanks for 15 days, after which the wine was matured in both stainless and concrete tanks for 6 months, then bottled and released.

The growing season in 2025 in the Southern Rhone was marked by a series of heatwaves. It began with a mild winter with sufficient rainfall to replenish the soils, followed by a balmy spring. Serious heat arrived during summer, which was beneficial for vines in Tavel, but also cut yields during this hot and fast-growing season. However, autumn rains cooled down the temperatures just enough to prevent overripening and preserve acidity and aromatics. Overall, quality is high in this vintage. Let's see how this 2025 Tavel Rosé is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CHÂTEAU D'AQUERIA CRU DES CÔTES DU RHÔNE TAVEL ROSÉ 2025 - AOP, France (#319368) (XD) - $25.95
This lovely organic rosé is a blend of 50% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Clairette, 10% Mourvedre, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Bourboulenc. Lovely, medium-high to highly aromatic nose offers attractive and complex aromas of ripe red berry, strawberry, cherry, and cranberry nuanced with fine mineral undertones and accents of dried spice, and grapefruit citrus. The weighty, medium-full bodied palate is dry with delicious and complex red berry, dried spice, and stony mineral flavours, plus touches of grapefruit zest. It has clean, vibrant acidity, along with a slightly chalky and tannic textured mouthfeel on the slightly spicy mid-palate. Mineral notes linger on the long, textured finish. Always great and a highly recommended buy! Score: 92 pts

One other wine by Château d'Aqueria is available at the LCBO (in small quantities), while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Praise Bistro Blanc 2024 and Bistro Rouge 2024 (Languedoc) - Wine Reviews

Tonight's wine reviews are a pair of delicious, vegan-friendly IGP Pays d'Oc wines from Languedoc that are brand-new arrivals at the LCBO, with both landing in-store and online in the March 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Praise Wines was founded a few years ago by sommeliers, friends, and business partners Scott Zebarth and Will Predhomme. Praise was born out of a desire to democratize wine, with the core values of quality, transparency, collaboration, sustainability, empowerment, and life-changing. In addition to making wine accessible for everyone, they wanted to go one step further and launched their Drink Better Initiative.

In today's world, access to clean water is the biggest crisis in the world, and the team at Praise believes that everyone should have access to clean water. At Praise, they are on a mission to combat the water crisis and create a positive impact through their wine brand. Praise believes that businesses can be agents of change and transform the world together. Their vision is to end water scarcity and build a sustainable future where humanity thrives in harmony with nature. With their commitment to making a difference, each bottle of Praise wine helps provide clean and safe water, an essential resource, to those in need for one year.

Praise proudly works with Water.org, who offers a portfolio of smart solutions that break down the financial barriers between people living in poverty and access to safe water and sanitation. Their unique solutions are adapted to the conditions in 11 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, as they work in collaboration with their in-country partners to provide efficient and scalable solutions, while using financing as a tool to help those in need.

There are only two wines in the Praise portfolio - the Bistro Blanc and Bistro Rouge. Both wines are crafted using organically cultivated grapes that were grown in Minervois, Languedoc, and labelled as IGP Pays d'Oc wines. Additionally, both wines are vegan-friendly, sustainable HVE3 certified, and packaged with environmentally-friendly packaging.

The growing season in 2024 in Minervois experienced drought conditions for the third year in a row, along with hot (and sometimes very hot) temperatures, which led to reduced yields. The resulting wines were generally aromatic with concentrated and dense flavours. From a very good vintage in terms of quality, let's see how these two IGP Pays d'Oc wines from Languedoc are tasting tonight...

Tasting Notes:

PRAISE BISTRO BLANC 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, France (#46876) (XD) - $18.95
Blend of 70% Marsanne and 30% Viognier grown in Minervios and enclosed by screw cap. The delicate, medium+ intensity nose offers ripe yellow fruit, lemon citrus, pear, and floral aromas with touches of fresh herbs and honeysuckle. On the dry, medium-full bodied palate it has impressive weight and concentration with flavours of ripe lemon citrus, pear, white peach, floral, and herbs, plus touches of gummy bear notes. It has juicy, well-balanced acidity, along with some warmth and spice on the mid-palate. Pear and citrus notes taper to leesy minerals on the finish, with good length. Recommended buy. Score: 88 pts

PRAISE BISTRO ROUGE 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, France (#46339) (D) - $18.95
100% Grenache enclosed by screw cap. The fresh, open, medium-high intensity nose is quite ripe and fruity with a fine mix of red berry, raspberry, savoury earth, and spice aromas, plus hints of white pepper and milk chocolate. On the mid-weighted palate it has fresh, juicy, and lively acidity that supports the ripe-fruited flavours of raspberry, white pepper spice, clove, and chocolate, with savoury earth undertones. It has ripe, supple tannins with a slightly gritty texture. The ripe fruit has a touch of sweetness that is masked by the high acids, which makes the wine come off as dry. Ripe raspberry, spice, and savoury earth notes linger on crisp finish, with very good length. Give it a light chill, crack open and enjoy! Score: 87+ pts

Both of these wines can also be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Domaine les Evigneaux Cuvée Belle Dame Rasteau 2022 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Rasteau from the Southern Rhône that made its debut at the LCBO a couple of weeks ago in the March 7 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and was part of the feature on Women in Wine.

Domaine les Evigneaux is owned by Maison LAVAU, a well-respected producer situated near the village of Sablet, at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail hills in the Southern Rhône Valley. The Lavau family has been involved in winemaking for several generations and have built a reputation as one of the region's top winemakers thanks to their dedication to high-quality standards, attention to detail, and thirst for excellence. After completing their studies in Canada, brothers Frédéric and Benoît Lavau joined the family business, and by 2000 they took over the company as their parents decided to retire.

In 2013, the Lavau family formed a partnership with Bénédicte Bonnet, née Arnaud, and her husband, Charles, who brought along with them the historic Château Maucoil property in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Bénédicte and the Lavau brothers have always been fans of Rasteau, which became a Cru in 2010, and have been making wines from this appellation for many years. In 2014, because of their special fondness for vineyards in Rasteau, they decided to acquire a few special and "atypical" vineyards in this area because of their outstanding exposure. In all, they acquired 10 hectares of vineyards consisting of 12 plots in Rasteau's most emblematic terroirs, which formed the plans to create a wine capable of delivering all the complexity and power of this extraordinary AOC, and would go on to become Domaine les Evigneaux.

The vineyards of Domaine les Evigneaux are perched upon a hill overlooking the Dentelles de Montmirail Mountains, with an uneven terrain that offers a great diversity of soils and a fascinating landscape. As you move from one terrace to another, depending on the slope, the soil changes from clay-chalk to blue marl, and from rounded pebbles to red marl. On the lower terraces, the soil is strewn with rounded pebbles that are perfect for Grenache, while the hillsides have poorer soils of clay-chalk, and sometimes almost sandy, which is equally good not only for Grenache, but also the region's other emblematic varietals: Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Carignan, among others. The Domaine takes full advantage of this geological diversity and blends grapes from these different profiles to create complex wines which assure the reputation of the Rhône Valley Cru of Rasteau.

This red wine is proudly crafted by Bénédicte Bonnet, who comes from a winegrowing family. She is an independent and hands-on winemaker who personally directs every stage of production from vineyard cultivation to final blending to ageing, ensuring that each bottle reflects her uncompromising standards, vision, and expertise. Her work embodies the confidence, talent, and leadership of women redefining the Rhône's great terroirs.

All grown within the Rasteau appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley, this red wine is composed of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Carignan, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault. The Syrah vines are planted on gravel and clay soil of the Quaternary terraces of Bellerive, in the south of the appellation, where it is sunny and early ripening, conditions which are ideal for growing Syrah. The Grenache vines are planted to the north in cooler soils which accentuate the diurnal temperatures (the difference between day and night temperatures), resulting in grapes with enhanced colour and aromatics. The pebble and gravel soils where Grenache is planted are mixed with a complex clay, which allows for constant, even drainage, and water supply.

To vinifiy this wine, the grapes were 100% destemmed, then underwent a cold pre-fermentation maceration, followed by 28 days of maceration with pumping over and rack and return. It was aged for 12 months, with 70% in 228 L barrels from the François Frères cooperage in Burgundy and 30% in amphoras.

In 2022, the growing season in the Southern Rhône was marked by extreme conditions with intense heat and drought. The year began with a dry winter and very little rain, followed by a spring that warmed up rapidly. While April did experience a fleeting cold snap, temperatures continued to rise, with successful budburst and flowering. May was abnormally hot, while rain in June brought some relief. On a positive note, the heat and drought during the summer months kept rot and disease at bay. In August, humidity arrived and revived the vines, which greatly benefited the red grape varieties Grenache and Syrah. From a high quality vintage with superb wines, let's see how this 2022 Rasteau is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE LES EVIGNEAUX CUVÉE BELLE DAME RASTEAU 2022 - AOP, Rhône, France (#47575) (XD) - $28.95
This blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Carignan, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault has a medium+ intensity nose that seems a bit shy, offering deep and warming aromas of ripe dark red wild berries, black cherry, kirsch, raspberry, garrigue, and spices with hints of stones, meaty, rose floral, and savoury earth. It's medium-full bodied, concentrated, and impressively structured on the dry palate with warming flavours of ripe raspberry, black cherry, garrigue, spices, stony mineral, meaty, and savoury earth. Acids are juicy and well-balanced, while the fine-grained tannins are structured with a slightly youthful grip. Warming, yet within balance, with wild berry, raspberry, garrigue, spice, and stony-smoky minerals on the long, savoury finish. Could pass for a Châteauneuf-du-Pape. At 15% abv, chill and enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 5+ years. Score: 91+ pts

At the moment, this is the only wine by Domaine les Evigneaux, but other wines down the line may be available through their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits.

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La Chevalière Rasteau 2023 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Grenache-based blend from the Côtes du Rhône Cru of Rasteau that arrived at the LCBO in last month's December 6th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

La Chevalière is a label produced by Les Grandes Serres, a well-regarded winery located in the Southern Rhône Valley. Founded in 1977, Les Grandes Serres is known for its expertise with the classic Rhône varietals of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, and producing high-quality wines from the Southern Rhône's most prestigious appellations. The name "Grandes Serres" translates to "large greenhouses", which once existed on the property.

Today, Les Grandes Serres is dedicated to expressing the diversity and unique terroirs of the Southern Rhône Valley. They emphasize sustainable viticulture and have deep respect for the environment. Mainly a négociant firm, Les Grandes Serres sources most of their grapes from contract growers.

The grapes for this red wine come from the village of Rasteau, an appellation by the same name which also became a Cru in 2020. Rasteau is situated in the Southern Rhône Valley, in the north of Vaucluse, and features a diversity of terroirs and a Mediterranean climate. The soil in Rasteau includes red marl and sandstone, clay and limestone soils, and is covered with worn pebbles on the surface. The pebbles accumulate heat throughout the day, and at night they release all that heat, which in turn cools down the vines. Rasteau is an ideal environment for wines to fully express their structured, generous, and powerful nature.

This lovely cuvée is a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan. When compared with the excellent 2022 La Chevalière Rasteau that I enjoyed in 2024, the 2023 has 10% more Syrah, while the amount of Mourvèdre and Carignan went down. To vinify this wine, the grapes were destemmed, gently crushed, and placed into temperature-controlled vats, followed by a three-week maceration with regular pumping-over and délestage (rack and return). After ageing, the different terroirs (and grapes) were blended together in order to achieve optimum balance, which highlights the characteristics of Rasteau.

In 2023, the growing season in the Southern Rhône began with a dry start and a relatively late bud burst. Welcoming late-spring rains arrived in May and June, and were followed by a warm and arid summer, with the fierce heat remaining until the end of August. This was a vintage that suited clay soils, rather than sandy soils, and while the weather conditions did present some challenges, the resulting wines from Rasteau excelled and showed detailed terroir expression. Let's see how this 2023 Rasteau is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA CHEVALIÈRE RASTEAU 2023 - AOP, Rhône, France (#18502) (XD) - $23.95
This blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan has a lovely, perfumed, medium-high intensity nose of dark red berry, garrigue, stones, peppery spice, blackberry, earthy mineral, with a touches of olive, leafy dried herbs, and meaty characters in a complex profile. The medium+ bodied palate is dry, ripe, and slightly warming with delicious black raspberry, peppery spice, garrigue, stones, and savoury, earthy mineral flavours. It's supported by crisp and juicy acidity, while the ripe and supple tannins are smooth and well-structured. Savoury and stony on the long, crisp finish. Best enjoyed at cooler temperatures and a highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Other lovely wines by the producers of La Chevalière can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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Rémy Ferbras Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2023 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is the latest vintage of this terrific Côtes du Rhône-Villages that arrived at the LCBO in last month's November 22 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

This red wine is produced by Rémy Ferbras at Grandes Serres. Rémy Ferbras is a wine brand anchored in the Southern Rhône Valley, in the heart of the prestigious Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. It is owned by Maison Grandes Serres, which is in turn owned by Picard Vins & Spiritueux, and pays tribute to the winery's first cellar master - Rémy Ferbras.

As an emblematic character of the house, Rémy Ferbras was a fervent defender of the Rhône Valley terroir and its grape varieties. Rémy always aimed to express the full potential of the grapes and terroir from this renowned wine region, and contributed with his work and tenacity to expand the house and his notoriety. The Rémy Ferbras signature is synonymous with rigorous and precise selection, vinification, and ageing, values which remain with the brand. Furthermore, the wines of Rémy Ferbras are consistently rich, elegant, complex, and flavourful.

Like the 2022 Rémy Ferbras Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages I enjoyed last year, this red wine is crafted using the same 4 grapes that were grown in the Côtes du Rhône-Villages appellation of Plan de Dieu. The named village appellation of Plan de Dieu, or "God's Plain", is a vast, flat terrace covered in vines, and makes more wine than any other Named Village. The plain lies in the Southern Rhone Valley, between the Aygues and Ouvèze rivers, which feed into the Rhône River from the east. Over thousands of years, the rivers laid down a deep bed of pebbles and clay that is perfect for cultivating vines. The vineyards in Plan de Dieu bask in the sun and are cooled by the north wind. The homogeneous terroir of Plan de Dieu has a Mediterranean climate influenced by the Mistral wind, while the soil consists of clay, limestone, and sands. As a red wine appellation, the main grape is Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre in supporting roles. Grenache loves this stony, arid plateau, which used to be covered with a vast garrigue forest.

In this particular vintage, this red wine is composed of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Mourvèdre, from vines planted in mainly limestone chippings and brown clay. The grapes were picked at optimum harvest maturity. Each grape varietal was traditionally and separately vinified. After two weeks of maceration, the grapes underwent alcoholic fermentation between 26°C and 28°C, followed by malolactic fermentation, then blended and bottled.

The growing season in 2023 began with a dry start, and a relatively late bud burst. Late-spring rains in May and June were welcome, which preceded a warm and arid summer, with the fierce heat remaining until the end of August. It was a season that suited clay soils, rather than sandy soils. While the season did present some challenges, it is considered to be a very good vintage for red wines from the Southern Rhône. Let's see how this 2023 Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

RÉMY FERBRAS PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2023 - AOP, France (#538009) (XD) - $17.95
This blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Mourvèdre has a deep, medium-high intensity nose that offers warming black raspberry, garrigue, black cherry, floral, and spice aromas accented with stony mineral and earth notes that gain prominence with time in the glass. The medium+ to medium-full bodied palate is dry and well-structured with delicious and complex black raspberry, black cherry, licorice, stony mineral, garrigue, earth, and spice flavours. It's supported by crisp and juicy acidity, alongside mouth-coating, grainy textured tannins. Shows good balance with savoury, stony mineral notes lingering on the long, crisp finish. Should drink well over next 5+ years and is a highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Only one wine (all in one store) from Rémy Ferbras is available at the LCBO, while the full range of wines can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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Rhonéa Tradition Rasteau 2021 and Les Confluences Vinsobres 2022 (Rhône) - Wine Reviews

Tonight's red wine reviews are a pair of lovely cru wines from the Southern Rhône Valley that arrived in LCBO VINTAGES recently. The Rasteau returned to VINTAGES on July 19th, while the Vinsobres made its debut as the Wine of the Month in the August 2nd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, and both are widely available at LCBO outlets across Ontario.

These red wines are produced by Rhonéa, a co-operative winery with deep roots in the Rhône Valley. It all began in the Provençal village of Rasteau in 1925, where singing cicadas and the scent of garrigue filled the air. During this time of economic certainty, a group of visionary and historic winegrowers joined forces to form a co-operative in order to showcase their land and wines. Despite the challenges, the co-operative adapted, grew, and thrived under the guidance of various presidents and directors, while also embracing innovation. The quality and dedication of the village eventually led to Rasteau being officially recognized as a Cru of the Rhône Valley in 2010.

Today, Rhonéa is made up of over 400 families of Artisan Winegrowers who have over a combined 2,900 hectares of vineyards stretching from the southeast of the Rhône to the north of the Vaucluse department. Situated across a diverse range of Rhône terroirs, these vineyards have been cultivated by winegrowing families for 3 or more generations.

In 2025, Rhonéa is celebrating 100 years of history, tradition, and shared dreams. To mark this special occasion, Rhonéa's oenologist carefully crafted the exclusive Centenary Cuvée, a blend of predominantly Grenache that is a testament to the co-operative's century-old expertise and unwavering passion for its terroir. The 2025 centenary is more than just a milestone; it is a celebration of the co-operative's core values - solidarity, heritage, and a shared passion for the vine. As a true symbol of the village, the co-operative tells a collective story, where each winegrower is a vital part of a century-long legacy of success. The co-operative is also focused on a sustainable future with their growth of local and sustainable winegrowing, as well as putting social responsibility and environmental protection at the heart of their project.

Both 2021 and 2022 were challenging vintages in the Southern Rhône Valley. In 2021 there was frost, hail, and rain, which reduced yields and created an uneven vintage. While 2021 will be remembered for being atypical, it will also be remembered for producing quality wines that are fresh, lush, and tasty. The 2022 growing season will be known for its heat and drought conditions. However, with the remarkable resilience of the vines and the dedication of the winegrowers and technical staff, the vintage promises wines of outstanding quality. Let's see how these two Southern Rhône Valley wines from the crus of Rasteau and Vinsobres are tasting tonight...

Tasting Notes:

RHONÉA TRADITION RASTEAU 2021 - AP, Rhône, France (#998716) (XD) - $19.95
Blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and 5% Carignan that was grown on terraces of clay, limestone, and pebbles in the plains of Rasteau, as well as on hills facing the Dentelles de Montmirail at 200–250 metres above sea level that featured layers of blue marls. The grapes were manually harvested, sorted, and destemmed, and followed by traditional vinification with long maceration and partial punching down. Tasting now for the third time, the medium+ to medium-high intensity has a slightly perfumed nose wafting of savoury, earthy mineral aromas nuanced with black cherry, dark red cherry, raspberry, garrigue, and spice. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has delicious black cherry, raspberry, savoury earthy-stony minerals, garrigue, and spice flavours, plus hints of plum. It has fresh acidity, along with supple, refined, and gently textured tannins with good structure. Savoury and earthy minerals with touches of spice linger on the long, elegant, and juicy finish. In LCBO VINTAGES July 19th and a highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

RHONÉA LES CONFLUENCES VINSOBRES 2022 - AC, Rhône, France (#43748) (XD) - $24.95
This blend of 49% Grenache, 44% Syrah, and 7% Mourvèdre was grown on red marls soil on the "Eygues" plain, between 200–300 metres above sea level. The grapes were harvested at optimum maturity, fermented at a controlled temperature, vinified using traditional methods, and aged for 12 months in oak barrels. The medium-high intensity nose offers lovely spicy, savoury earth, and garrigue layers, alongside blackberry, black raspberry, ripe plum, and black pepper notes. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has delicious ripe black cherry, black raspberry, peppery spice, garrigue, red plum, and savoury, earthy mineral flavours supported by juicy, well-balanced acidity, and smooth, refined tannins with good structure and a touch of tannic grip. Black cherry, raspberry, and peppery spice notes give way to savoury and earthy minerals on the long, satisfying finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines by Rhonéa can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Rémy Ferbras Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2021 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the Southern Rhône Valley that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month in the August 2nd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Rémy Ferbras at Les Grandes Serres. Rémy Ferbras is anchored in the Southern Rhône Valley, in the heart of a prestigious Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard. The brand is owned by Maison Grandes Serres and pays tribute to the winery's first cellar master - Rémy Ferbras - who is the emblematic character of the house. Rémy was a fervent defender of the Rhône Valley terroir and its grape varieties, and was able to express the full potential of the grapes and terroir from this renowned wine region. Rémy Ferbras contributed with his work and tenacity to expand the house and his notoriety, while his signature is synonymous with rigorous and precise selection, vinification, and ageing. The wines of Rémy Ferbras are consistently rich, elegant, complex, and flavourful.

This red wine is crafted with 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre that was grown in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in a famous vineyard dominated by its papal ruin and exceptional terroir. A rising vineyard teeming with creativity, the soils in this vineyard are mainly sandy and limestone, and covered with rolled pebbles. After manually harvesting the grapes with strict sorting, each varietal was vinified separately using traditional methods. The grapes underwent alcoholic fermentation at a controlled temperature between 26–28°C, with 2–3 weeks of maceration. The wine was partially aged in French oak barrels for up to 18 months.

The 2021 growing season in the Southern Rhône was a very challenging vintage where frosts reduced yields; Châteauneuf, however, was spared the worst of the frosts. There were also unpredictable temperatures throughout the season, and random thunderstorms in July, but thankfully without any heat spikes. Furthermore, there were untimely rains in mid-September, which affected early-budding grapes such as Syrah. While the quality of Grenache was mixed, it was mostly very good with thin skins, resulting in fresher, lower-alcohol wines with elegant tannins. Let's see how this 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

RÉMY FERBRAS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2021 - AP, Rhône, France (#15184) (XD) - $50.95
This blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that seems a bit shy, offering pleasing ripe red plum, red berry, and spice aromas nuanced with garrigue, savoury earth, and stony mineral notes. The dry, medium-full bodied is youthfully structured with very good concentration and lovely ripe red berry, spice, cassis, black cherry, garrigue, savoury earthy, stony mineral, and gentle smoky oak flavours. It has crisp and lively acidity, while the mouth coating, well-structured tannins have some youthful grip. Red berry, garrigue, and red plum notes give way to earthy and stony minerals on the long, crisp finish. Enjoyable now, but will reward with a few years in the cellar, and should be enjoyable into the mid-2030s. Highly recommended buy! Score: 93 pts

Other fine wines by Remy Ferbras can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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Seppeltsfield Grenache 2023 (Barossa) - Wine Review

After enjoying the excellent 2020 Seppeltsfield EC405 Barossa Shiraz/Mataro last year, tonight's red wine review is a lovely Grenache from the same producer that made its debut at the LCBO just over a couple of weeks ago in the June 21st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by the historic Seppeltsfield, a winery that was established in the Barossa Valley in 1851 by Joseph and Johanna Seppelt, who emigrated from Silesia in Central Europe, just 15 years after the European settlement of South Australia. While their original intent was to farm tobacco, later generations of the family concentrated their efforts on grape growing and winemaking. The Seppelt family is regarded as one of Australia's most successful wine dynasties.

Today, Seppeltsfield is considered a true national treasure as it helped shape the history of the Australian wine industry. Steeped in rich Barossan heritage, Seppeltsfield is a multi-award-winning tourism destination that provides world-class luxury experiences with the cellar door serving as the heart of the estate. Seppeltsfield remained within the family for generations until 1985, and returned to private ownership in 2007 after it was acquired by proprietor, viticulturist, and winemaker Warren Randall, who worked with the Seppelt family during the 1980s, and a supporting cast of proud investors.

The history of Seppeltsfield is punctuated with many moments of visionary foresight. The first was the inception of the 1878 Centennial Cellar - a truly unique and unparalleled system of maturing single barrels of vintage Tawny for 100 years before release. Plans to build the bluestone cellar began in 1866, and it was completed in 1878 by Oscar Benno, son of Joseph and Johanna, following the passing of his father. The visionary Gravity Cellar was designed by Benno and completed in 1888. Built into the hillside on a series of terraces, it allowed for gravity to naturally guide the flow of fruit through the winery to deliver gentle extraction of colour, flavour, and tannin. While the Gravity Cellar was decommissioned in the 1980s due to the need for significant restoration, it was proudly revived for the 2010 vintage.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Grenache that was sourced from the estate vineyard, on the western ridge of the Barossa. The vineyard was carefully and frequently assessed during the entire growing, especially during the ripening phase post-veraison, to ensure the perfect balance between flavour, sugar, and phenolic ripeness. The wine was vinified through the historic 1888 Gravity Cellar, which is highly regarded for its small batch format and gentle maceration. Crafted in a 'joven' style, this Grenache was vinified without any oak maturation, thus allowing the natural fruit characters of the grape to shine.

The 2023 growing season in Barossa was a challenging vintage that began with a spring that was one of the wettest ever recorded. There was strong budburst, while the growing season saw average soil moisture. Summer days were sunny, with no heatwaves, while diurnal temperatures were average. With temperatures mostly staying below 30°C, along with large canopies, veraison occurred in many varieties in February, which was later than normal. Some rainfall during harvest kept both growers and producers on their toes with crop management and picking dates. While a challenging vintage, growers who paid careful attention to their vines enjoyed a superb vintage. Let's see how this 2023 Grenache from Barossa is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

SEPPELTSFIELD GRENACHE 2023 - Barossa, South Australia (#41439) (XD) - $24.95
Screw cap. Fragrant and open, this has a lovely, lifted nose of great intensity with spicy, ripe dark red berry, raspberry, black cherry, earthy minerals, red plum, red licorice, and touches of dried herb aromas. The mid-weighted palate is dry with lovely red fruit, spices, raspberry, black cherry, licorice, red plum, and dried herb flavours surrounding a core of earthy and graphite minerality. Acids are crisp and lively, while the light tannins have a finely-grained texture. Mildly spicy on the mid-palate, while red fruits, raspberry, and herbal notes taper to graphite and earthy minerals on the long, crisp, and savoury finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Very small quantities of other fine wines by Seppeltsfield are available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

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La Ferme du Mont Les Marnes Bleues Rasteau 2022 (Rhône) - Wine Review

To celebrate Valentine's Day, tonight's red wine review is the inaugural vintage of this terrific blend of Grenache and Syrah from the Southern Rhône Valley Cru of Rasteau. It was released into the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on February 1st as part of the feature story exploring France's top wine regions.

La Ferme du Mont was established in 2000 by Stéphane Vedeau, a third-generation winemaker and viticulturalist who started out by understanding Grenache, paradoxes, agreed impossibilities, climates, and elevation. Stéphane spent countless hours and days performing micro-vinifications and journeys deep into the cellar to gain an understanding of Grenache and its verticality and all its freshness. At this point, a perfect balance didn't exist, but he was getting closer. With further experimentation and acquired knowledge, Stéphane eventually gained notoriety for producing high-quality wines and his attention to detail.

In 2010, Stéphane continued his journey into the northern tip of the Southern Rhône Valley by acquiring Clos Bellane in Valréas. In 2016, a new adventure begins after meeting Jean-François. After the two men reconnected through their passion for beauty and vision of the vineyard, as well as to get to know each other for a couple of years, they decide to form a business partnership and dedicate themselves to discovering the beautiful terroirs in the Rhône Valley. In 2020, the business was expanded further by purchasing 10 hectares of Val de Rois, while giving the former owner, Emmanuel Bouchard, carte blanche to maintain the vineyards at both Val de Rois and Clos Bellane. The latest acquisition took place in 2022, when the business partners purchased 12 hectares and the winemaking cellar in Crozes-Hermitage, in the northern Rhône Valley.

Today, Les Domaines du Mont is made up of these four estates and one vision - to seek the most sensitive and true interpretation of each of their terroirs in the pursuit of natural balance. The philosophy is to let nature express itself freely, as well as the constant pursuit of natural simplicity. With a conviction that everything is already in nature, Domaines du Mont seeks to express the characteristics of their terroirs using a holistic vision, one in which man is a 'guide', rather than a 'maker.' With humility a guiding principle, man must restrain the urge to intervene too much, and thus allow nature and the grapes to express their deepest essence. The goal of purity, finesse, and balance is achieved by using a minimalist approach, gentle and traditional vinification methods, including the use of gravity-fed vinification, indigenous yeasts, and minimizing sulfites well-below the limits authorized in organic wine production.

This particular wine is from La Ferme du Mont, a range of wines which I've had the pleasure of tasting several times over the years. The wines of La Ferme du Mont offer a unique and complex mosaic of vineyards, within the finest terroirs of the southern Rhône Valley. Sensible to the integrity of its environment, Stéphane Vedeau has deciphered, interpreted, and adapted to these terroirs to reveal their most sincere expression. Representative of a simple place where plants live in a constant balance within a biotope rich in different species, the goal is to produce the healthiest and most balanced fruits in harmony with the plant. With a goal of achieving harmony and balance, each vineyard parcel is approached individually and harvested at the point where freshness will remain even at high ripeness.

From the Rasteau Cru, this red wine is a blend of Grenache and Syrah. It gets its name - Les Marnes Bleues - because the grapes were grown on fine, sandy soils underlined by a safre matrix, which has a grey-blue-reflecting terroir that imparts an elegant exuberance to the renowned ripeness of Rasteau, as well as a subtle mineral texture. This vineyard is situated between 160 and 290 metres above sea level. To craft this wine, each grape was vinified separately, with multiple harvests taking place in order to achieve an optimal ripeness level that balances sweetness and harmony for each parcel. It underwent a 5 to 7 week fermentation, without any mechanical extractions prior to pressing, and was aged in uncoated concrete vats situated in a semi-underground cellar.

The extreme conditions during the 2022 growing season in the Southern Rhône were marked by intense heat and drought, with the year beginning as a dry winter that saw very little rain. It was followed by a spring that rapidly warmed up, although April did experience a fleeting cold snap. Even though temperatures continued to rise, budburst and flowering were a success. May was abnormally hot, while rain in June brought some relief. Heat and drought during the summer months kept rot and disease at bay, while humidity arrived in August, which revived the vines and greatly benefited the red grape varieties Grenache and Syrah. With high grape quality this vintage, let's see how this 2022 Rasteau from the Southern Rhône is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA FERME DU MONT LES MARNES BLEUES RASTEAU 2022 - AP, Rhône, France (#40869) (XD) - $26.95
Aged in concrete, this blend of Grenache and Syrah has a fragrant, medium-high intensity nose that is uber ripe and fruit forward with red & black raspberry, black cherry, and touches of dried herb aromas layered over blackberry and stony mineral notes that gain prominence with time in the glass. It is medium-full to full-bodied on the impressively concentrated, dry, and ripe palate with delicious black & red fruits, raspberry, black cherry, blackberry, stony mineral, and dried herbal replays. Harmonious and balanced with crisp, finely tuned acidity and smooth, ripe, and dusty textured tannins that are mildly grippy on the back palate with good structure. Ripe dark fruit, raspberry, savoury stony mineral, and smoke notes linger on long, slightly youthful, and grippy finish. Almost drinks like a Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91+ pts

Only a few bottles of one other wine by La Ferme du Mont is available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

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Famille Perrin Les Christins Vacqueyras 2010 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a mature Vacqueyras that I purchased over a dozen years ago when it arrived on shelves across Ontario in the December 8, 2012 LCBO VINTAGES Release. While this vintage is long sold out, this wine does come through LCBO VINTAGES every fall, with a small amount of the latest vintage (2021) currently available at the LCBO.

This Southern Rhône red wine is produced by the renowned Famille Perrin winemaking family. It is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah that was grown in the Southern Rhone Valley Cru of Vacqueyras. The grapes were hand-harvested and placed in 25 kg boxes. Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes were crushed and underwent a month-long fermentation, with half going into 50 hectolitre tanks, while the other half was fermented Foudres. The wines underwent malolactic fermentation, and was then blended and aged for one year in a combination of Foudres and barrels.

The growing conditions in the Southern Rhone Valley in 2010 produced an exceptional vintage. There was heavy rainfall during spring, followed by a very hot summer. September featured an Indian summer, which allowed for long hang-time and great harvest conditions. Yield reduction during the initial phase of the growing season greatly benefited the grapes that remained on the vine, which resulted in a legendary vintage that produced very balanced wines with intense fruit notes and great finesse. I imagine that I've held on to this a bit too long, but let's see how this 2010 Vacqueyras is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

FAMILLE PERRIN LES CHRISTINS VACQUEYRAS 2010 - AC, Rhône, France (#973453) (XD) - $23.95
Pours a deep garnet colour. This blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah has an open, medium-high intensity nose that offers mature, stewed dark berry aromas alongside sweet baking spices, leather, dried purple flowers, and savoury wet earth, plus some dried dark berry tones. On the dry, tangy, and medium-full bodied palate, the fruit is shifting into the mature, dried spectrum, and is joined by savoury wet earth, leather, and dried spice flavours. It has tangy, lemony acidity, while the grippy textured and astringent tannins overwhelm the palate. Savoury earth, spice, floral, plus smoky mineral notes linger on the finish, with a touch of heat at the tail end. Enjoyable, but certainly past its drinking window. Drink now if you have a bottle. Score: 89 pts

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Rémy Ferbras Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2022 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Côtes du Rhône-Villages from the Plan de Dieu appellation that arrived at the LCBO last month in the October 19th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the 2018 Rémy Ferbras Terre de Mistral Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages I enjoyed a couple of years ago, this red wine is produced by Rémy Ferbras, a winery with deep roots in the Southern Rhone Valley, at the heart of the prestigious Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards. Owned by Grandes Serres winery, they pay tribute to Rémy Ferbras, its very first cellar master. Rémy Ferbras was an iconic figure of the winery and a tireless advocate of the Rhône terroir and its grape varieties. He succeeded in expressing the full potential of Rhône Valley wines and, through his work and tenacity, contributed greatly to the development and public recognition of Grandes Serres. The Rémy Ferbras range of wines are the result of strict selections, precise vinification, and ageing, methodologies he would've used, to produce wines that are rich, elegant, complex, and flavourful.

This red wine is a blend of four grapes that were grown in the Plan de Dieu appellation, in the heart of the Southern Rhône Valley. Plan de Dieu is spread across four villages and extends to the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail. In the Middle Ages, the sisters of Prébayon Abbey tended to these lands, which were covered with a vast garrigue forest rife with brigands and other robbers who ambushed travellers. Thus, when travelling in the region, it is best to put yourself in God's hands! Vine cultivation had been practiced in the region since at least 1326, but was abandoned for many years until it was revived during the 1920s. The terroir of this plateau is stony and arid, with soils composed of mainly limestone chippings and brown clay, conditions loved by Grenache.

A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre, the grapes for this red wine were picked at optimum harvest maturity. Each grape was vinified separately using traditional techniques for each grape variety. It underwent alcoholic fermentation between 26-28°C, with two weeks of maceration. After undergoing malolactic fermentation, the individual wines were blended and bottled.

The 2022 growing season in the Southern Rhône Valley was marked by intense heat and drought. The year began with a dry winter and very little rain, followed by a spring that rapidly warmed up, although there was a fleeting cold snap in April. Temperatures continued to rise throughout spring, leading to a successful budburst and flowering. May was abnormally hot, while June rains brought some relief. Summer brought intense heat and drought, with some vines struggling, while rot and disease were mostly kept at bay. Some humidity in August helped revive some of the vines. From a very good vintage that was more suitable for red wines, particularly Grenache and Syrah, let's see how this 2022 Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages red wine is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

RÉMY FERBRAS PLAN DE DIEU CÔTES DU RHÔNE-VILLAGES 2022 - AP, France (#538009) (XD) - $17.95
This blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre has a fragrant, open, and medium-high intensity nose that offers ripe, lush, and complex aromas of black raspberry, scorched earth, smoky mineral, red plum, black cherry, blackberry, and spice notes. On the crisp, dry, medium+ bodied palate, it has lovely, ripe black raspberry, red plum, cherry, peppery spice, red licorice, and mineral flavours. It has juicy, succulent acidity, and supple, lightly chalky tannins with good structure. Gently tangy on the mid-palate, while lovely smoky mineral and touches of spice notes linger on the long, savoury finish. Absolutely delicious and a highly recommended buy to enjoy over the next 3-4 years. Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Rémy Ferbras can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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La Chevalière Rasteau 2022 (Rhône) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent Grenache-based blend from Rasteau that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month as part of the October 5 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

The La Chevalière label is a joint product between Les Grandes Serres and Rémy Ferbras. Both producers are based in the Rhône Valley and known for their expertise in crafting high-quality wines from the prestigious Southern Rhône Valley appellations. They use traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern practices to express the unique terroirs of the Rhône Valley. With sustainable vineyard practices, hand-harvesting, and meticulous sorting of grapes, both producers work with growers to ensure high-quality grapes are grown.

Like the 2017 La Chevalière Rasteau I enjoyed a few years ago, this red wine is a blend of four grapes led by Grenache. The 2022 vintage is, in fact, a blend of 70% Grenache, 10% Carignan, 10% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah. The grapes were grown in the Rasteau Cru, a village located just north of Vaucluse county, between the valleys of Aigues and Ouvèze, in the Southern Rhône Valley. The area of Rasteau has a variety of terroirs, including red marl and sandstone, clay and limestone soils, and is covered with worn pebbles on the surface. After accumulating heat throughout the day, these pebbles are known for their ability to release all that heat at night, which in turn cools down the vines. The Mediterranean climate and diversity of terroirs in Rasteau offers an ideal environment for the wines to fully express their structured, generous, and powerful nature.

To vinify this Rhône red, the grapes were destemmed, softly crushed, and placed in temperature-controlled vats to undergo a three-week maceration with regular pumping-over and délestage (rack and return). After ageing, the different terroirs were blended together to achieve optimum balance for the very differentiated character of this Rasteau.

The 2022 growing season in the Southern Rhône was marked by intense heat and drought, with the year beginning as a dry winter that saw very little rain. It was followed by a spring that rapidly warmed up, although April did experience a fleeting cold snap. Even though temperatures continued to rise, budburst and flowering were a success. May was abnormally hot, while rain in June brought some relief. Heat and drought during the summer months kept rot and disease at bay, while humidity arrived in August, which revived the vines and benefited the red grape varieties Grenache and Syrah. Overall, grape quality is high in 2022. Let's see how this 2022 Rasteau from the Southern Rhône is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA CHEVALIÈRE RASTEAU 2022 - AC, Rhône, France (#18502) (XD) - $23.95
This blend of 70% Grenache, 10% Carignan, 10% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah has a ripe, bright, and lifted nose of medium-high to high intensity that delivers lovely red & black raspberry, blackberry, black cherry, and spice aromas surrounding a meaty, savoury, and mineral core. Some olive and Mediterranean herb aromas appear with time in the glass, adding further complexity. On the dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied palate it has spicy, black and red berry fruited raspberry, cassis, savoury mineral, and earthy flavours with some plummy notes. Acids are fresh and tangy, while structured, grainy tannins have some chalky grip. Peppery spice with savoury earth and stony mineral notes linger on the long, grippy, and structured finish. Enjoyable now, and should drink well over the next 6-8 years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines from the producers of La Chevalière can be ordered through their Agent - DBINO David Beauroy Selections.

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