presented by Andrew Alley of 17th Street Distributing
Crémant de Loire Rosé Brut AOC ~ NV
The Brault family acquired the vineyard at the end of the 18th century, and have been running the estate since then. In 1951, they were among the first winegrowers to create the Brissac cooperative with whom they associated. This balanced sparkling wine from France is vinified from grapes grown close to the sea in the Val de Loire. The vines here dig their roots deep into soils of shale. The influence of the nearby sea causes the grapes to ripen more slowly.
Appellation: Anjou (Loire Valley), France
Grapes:Grolleau & Chenin Blanc
Tasting notes: A stunning, brilliant salmon pink hue, complemented by a delicate mousse. Aromatically, this charming sparkling rosé is subtle and fresh, characterized by gentle notes of red berries such as raspberries and strawberries, and a touch of redcurrant. These berry notes echo on the palate, and the finish is refreshingly dry.
Pairings: Light starters, such as a crisp, summer salad or delicate canapés featuring smoked salmon or prosciutto. Also a perfect match for fruit-based desserts, such as a raspberry tart or strawberry shortcake.
Producer: Chateau de Mauny
O&T Touraine Sauvignon Blanc
The winery is Oisly & Thésée (pronounced: “wally & tess-ay”) and it gets its name from the neighboring villages of Oisly & Thésée located just east of Tours in the Loire Valley. Formed in 1961, this is a cooperative of local growers focused on producing top-class Touraine wines. O+T was the first cooperative to install stainless steel tanks in the cellar. It is sourced from Sauvignon Blanc vines that root into the chalky soils of Touraine, giving almost unheard of minerality.
Appellation: Loire Valley, France
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc 100% – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: Pale yellow. Citrus, floral, and flint on the nose, with a medium-bodied palate and quenching acidity.
Pairings: Ideal with vegetarian or lean fish dishes, or with goat cheese.
Producer: Oisly & Thésée
Jaboulet Ermitage Rouge ~ 2017
Over centuries, this mythical cru has built its reputation on a single hill, and an epic history. Sheltered from northerly winds, most of the hillsides are south-facing and receive good exposure to the sun while enjoying a Mediterranean climate. The harmony between the soils and the sun exposure allows the Syrah varietal to express its strength perfectly.
Appellation: Hermitage, France
Grapes: Syrah 100% – ABV 13.5%
Tasting notes: Notes of tobacco, leather, pepper, and spices. There are a lot of tannins in the mouth. Power is balanced with finesse and elegance.
Pairings: Try crusty breads hard cheeses, and cured meats.
Aging: 24 months in oak barrel (50% new oak)
Producer: Philippe & Vincent Jaboulet
St Emilion Grand Cru ~ 2022
Situated at the foot of the hillside of the same name, paying homage to the abbot Rozier, who in 1760 wrote one of the first manuals on modern viticulture. This wine offers a dense, crimson color. If you give it some air in the wine glass by swirling, this wine reveals a high viscosity, which shows in church windows at the edge of the glass.
Appellation: Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France
Grapes: Merlot 80%, Cabernet Franc 18%, Cabernet Sauvignon 2% – ABV 14.5%
Tasting notes: Deep purple color, flavors of red and black fruits, with a woody and slight vanilla edge. The tannin gives it a fleshy, smooth, and delicious yet elegant taste.
Pairings: Pairs excellently with beef, lamb, poultry, or game.
Aging: 12 months in new and used French oak barrels.
Producer: Château Rozier
