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Archive for the ‘Provence’ Category

2004 Vin de Pays des Bouches du Rhône Marselan Domaine l’Attilon

Tuesday, September 11th, 2007

Price: $8.99 @ K&L Wines imported by Premier Wine Company

What They Said:

Per K&L Wines “Marselan, a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, is a new grape variety being developed in the Aude and Bouches du Rhone areas of southern France. Vinified for the first time in 2002, Marselan has quickly become a darling of many French wine professionals and consumers. Domaine l’Attilon’s organic version of this new cepage is bursting with bright, crunchy black currant and cherry fruit balanced by violet floramatics and a vibrant acidity. This deliciously user friendly red is a wine you can feel good about on all levels, as it delivers delicious enjoyment at a fantastic price! Another terrific value from the South of France!”

They also said this in the May 2007 newsletter, “A dichotomy on the palate. Initially you get the levity and light temper of the grenache followed by the stern gravity of the cabernet. Overall this marriage is pleasing. Pronounced violets on the nose next to a mouthful of lively and snappy fruit with fresh, deep black currant flavors. There is nothing gushy or goopy about this wine. It’s got a strong acidic presence that mingles with dusty tannins. Enjoy this “little big guy” with bistro fare.”

What I Think:

A new grape, as usual, right up my alley. Anything to keep it interesting. As mentioned above this grape is a cross between cab and grenache mix. I had this one a few weeks back with steak while my wife was out of town. I sampled this side by side with the recently posted Guigal. My notes for this were more plentiful than for the other. Does that a winner make?

On the nose you were greeted with aromas that tended towards barnyard and dust. On the palate the fruit was subtle. Overall I would say the wine has sturdy flavors and dry overtones. The finish was a bit on the tart side. Given the uniqueness factor perhaps this wine may have seemed more compelling than it otherwise could have been. I am guessing the second bottle I have will tell the story. For now I will remain on the fence.

Rating: Pricey

How do you rate it?

Avoid It/Rip Off!Skip It/Not for Me12th Bottle/PriceyBuy It/Wow!Bulk Buy/Cellar It (1 votes, average: 3 out of 5)
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2004 Chateau de la Galiniere Cotes de Provence Rouge

Sunday, June 17th, 2007

Price: $5.99 @ Trader Joe’s imported by Latitude Wines

What They Said:

Per the bottle “The Chateau and its vineyards are situated at the foothills of the majestic Cengle de la Sainte Victoire range of hills in the village of Chateauneuf-le-Rouge. From hand-picked grapes, this elegant wine reveals a complex bouquet of plums, aniseed and violets and rick, silky flavours.”

What I Think:

Can this really be hand picked at this price point? If so it must be the seconds or thirds of something much better. Before I get too much further I should explain that I have somewhat of an infatuation with wines from the Provencal region so keep that in mind as you read on..

On pulling the cork the first thing you get is something barnyard-ish on the nose. Not in a bad way, or a great one either. It was kind of dry and dusty with hints of flower and spice. On the palate you get some light fruit, perhaps plums, which quickly fade leading to a slightly tart, tongue smacking dry finish. On the second day it started to open up a bit more and there was more dark fruit noticeable. Given my relationship with this region I will be giving it another try, whether you do or not is your call.

Rating: 12th Bottle

How do you rate it?

Avoid It/Rip Off!Skip It/Not for Me12th Bottle/PriceyBuy It/Wow!Bulk Buy/Cellar It (2 votes, average: 4 out of 5)
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