September 3rd, 2009 by Jeff

Price:  ~$18

Region:

Tavel district of the Rhône Valley, France

Nose:

Not terribly aromatic.  There are vague cranberry and cherry notes along with a slight leafiness…kind of like a few too many strawberry leaves got mixed into fruit salad.

Palate:

Medium bodied but very mouth-filling.   Dry, better than moderate acid, well structured.  It really holds together in the mouth.  “Tightly wound” as we like to say.  Strawberry, raspberry, cloves or cinnamon stretch throughout the mid-palate.  Long, lingering finish.

Synopsis:

Tavel is the only appellation in the Rhône Valley that only does Rosé wines.  They are based on the usual Rhône suspects; a blend of  Grenache and Clairette.

I’ve probably had Rosés with more of a “wow” factor, or ones that have a distinct pop of flavor, but for all around beauty and solidness this is right up there.  Great balance and confidence here.  This must be a winemaker that has a strong opinion of what good Rosé should do and is intent on sharing that vision with us.  Just lovely wine.

The Som Rating: 8/10 Scarlett Johansson Heads