A Rose With Pedigree

We are very encouraged by the surge in the popularity of dry Rose wines over the past five years or so. The majority of these wines are simple, straightforward quaffers, ideal for consumption on their own or with appetizers. This is not the case for all Rose though, as some can be quite complex. French Rose from Bandol in the southern region of Provence, and in Tavel from the southern Rhone Valley are good examples as being among the most ageworthy and sophisticated produced. We happened to come upon this Bordeaux Rose recently and would include it in this category. When you consider the source, it shouldn’t be that surprising. The estate is Chateau Pichon Longueville Baron, a second growth Pauillac whose primary label sells for well over $100 per bottle. Only in certain vintages, when conditions are right, this Rose is made by taking a small amount of juice after only hours of skin contact. In 2007 the estate bottled Rose de Tourelles was made with equal parts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. In style, it has more in common with a red wine. Aromas of berry, plum and cedar lead to a full palate of red fruits. Serve it slightly chilled to preserve the aromatics and recommend pairing with medium to full-bodied seafood or grilled marinated chicken. Enjoy over the next year. $19.99 Net


North Valley Pinot Noir has become a welcomed addition to our wide selection of Pinot Noirs. As soon as we tasted North Valley, there was something special about this one. In fact, it has shown the potential of standing above many Pinot Noirs that are $10-$20 higher. It begins by revealing a lavish, elegant style, and follows with its youthful, yet mature flavor profile, that’s conducive for early drinking. This is a common trait of the 2007 Willamette Valley vintage. This well-balanced wine exhibits an expressive floral berry aroma. The wine has a smooth velvety texture, complex flavors of blackberry, cherry and ripe plum fruits, with shades of cocao, earthy mineral, spice, cola, oak tannin and an embracing acidic structure that holds up the long sweet finish. Tony Soter is behind North Valley Pinot Noir. An established winemaker that has been involved for more than twenty five years consulting for an impressive list of blue chip California wineries. But what Soter is most noted for, are the wines produced from his Etude Winery. Soter is now venturing into Oregon’s Willamette Valley. He works with a handful of well managed growers and with his own 22 acres of vineyard land dedicated to premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, located on the North Fork of Chehalem Valley. This arrangement provides a flexible advantage of blending from a range of the region’s multiple terroirs.
$29.99 Net

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