SOME OLD FRIENDS FIND A NEW HOME

Lauren came by yesterday with 4 French wines from old friends Patrick and Connie Allen of United Estates, a boutique French importer specializing in wines from the South of France:

Jean Falmet Brut Tradition Champagne NV. Grade=Outstanding. A stunning value in Champagne, this blend of 70% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier and 10% Chardonnay shows off brilliant golden apple, d’Anjou pear, hints of toasted brioche, mineral, lime zest and white flowers. Gorgeous from start to finish.

La Croix Gratiot Picpoul de Pinet Coteaux du Languedoc 2009. Grade=Outstanding. I think my search for a good Picpoul is over – this light-to-medium-bodied white wine has some seriously viscous notes of mineral, apple, pear and herbs. A remarkable food wine, as well as a tasty aperitif.

Terres Falmet Cinsault VDP 2009. Grade=Outstanding+. This has always been one of our store’s hidden gems – a 100% Cinsault that is robust, vibrant and lively with juicy red fruits, truckloads of spices, and roasted truffle character. A real steal.

Chateau Virgile Rouge Reserve Cuvee l’Eneide 2007. Grade=Amazing. This Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre blend is phenomenal, displaying a serious earthy/woodsy character with dark, dense black, red and purple fruit aromas and flavors, some creamy oak, baking spice and roasted herbs. Thick on the midpalate, it finishes long and sensuous.