Trio of wines in tribute to France

During my second visit to Vinexpo Paris, as well as to Beaune, Burgundy earlier this month, I tasted some excellent wines, of which here are three singular bottles. A Beaune-based Burgundy with finesse and vibrancy, a rich and opulent Coudoulet de Beaucastel, and a Crozes-Hermitage with fruit and character. Discover my trio of wines in tribute to France.

Trio of wines in tribute to France

Maison Champy, the oldest house in Burgundy, has been based in Beaune since 1720. This historical house won me over. Oenologist Dimitri Bazas has favoured parcels from the terroirs of Puligny, Meursault and Rully. Let’s move on to the tasting of the fascinating 2014 (there is also some left in SAQ 15,042,676): a brilliant yellow-gold colour and a symphony of fresh yellow apples, Meyer lemon, honeysuckle, beeswax, with fine oak and notes of toast and almond paste. If it is discreet on opening, give it a short decanting to give it wings, otherwise turn it generously in the glass. See the article on their splendid and generous Pouilly-Fuissé, in the Issue 9 of the magazine. Please do not drink it too cold for its aromas to come out, it is worthy of an elegant “petit Meursault.” Enjoy with white fish in sauce, white meat or fine cheeses, such as Morbier, which will suit it perfectly. Sparkling.

Varietal:

• 100% Chardonnay

Available in SAQ

Coudoulet de Beaucastel Côtes-du-Rhône 2020

Mr. Thomas Perrin is the fifth generation of the Perrin family and represents the frankness of his wines. Jacques, the father, studied in Beaune. Château de Beaucastel dates from 1909, located between Orange and Avignon. Observe that the durability of these wines, which have been organic for 50 years, is assured. Coudoulet is often considered to be the baby of Château de Beaucastel. The colour is deep and the nose offers notes of ripe fruit, spices and flowers. Full-bodied and balanced, the palate is penetrating with magnificent aromas of black cherry, blackberry, plum, liquorice and garrigue, its six months in oak tuns give it mellow tannins, body and a long finish. Serve at 16° C for balance and freshness. Decanter awarded it 92/100 in 2020, Wine Spectator 91/100 in 2022. A great wine at a bargain price, it can improve in the cellar for 5 to 10 years. Perfect with duck breast or confit, grilled beef or lamb with Provençal herbs, all accompanied by baked vegetables with a pinch of rosemary. Dazzling.

Varietal:

• 40% Grenache
• 30% Mourvèdre
• 20% Syrah
• 10% Cinsault

Available in SAQ

Paul Jaboulet La Mule Noire Crozes-Hermitage 2020

Paul Jaboulet was the first of five generations of Jaboulets to run the company, which was founded in 1834 by his father until it was bought by the Frey family in 2006. In terms of historical heritage, the underground Vineum galleries, which were built in 121 BC, are now used as ageing cellars, restaurant and shop for Paul Jaboulet Aîné! I only knew of the Parallèle 45, which I liked for the low price, but after tasting 5 other vintages at Vinexpo Paris, it was a revelation. A Nocturne with berries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, plums, violets, potpourri, sweet spices and cocoa. One will discover melted tannins that lengthen in the mouth. A real organic favourite, it offers a perfect balance that will charm with grilled meats on the BBQ and poultry. Ostentatious!

Varietal:

• 100% Syrah

Available in SAQ

Enjoy your tastings!