I went to so many wine tastings in the past 4 weeks that I don't know where to start, going through my notes while my memory is still fresh.
Call it an embarrassment of riches.
Since the Sud De France Rosé Tasting gave us La Vie en Rosé in 10 Wines, I thought it would be a good way to start catching up.
All wines were from the 2008 Vintage.
My favorites:
First in line was Perles de Rosé, a Vin de Pays des Coteaux du Libron (near Beziers) from Domaine de Bachellery. Named after its pale 'rose petal' color, it offers berry flavors and a hint of dryness on the finish, a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Muscat (around $12 retail).
Second, Le Clot Rosé, Vin de Pays Cotes du Roussillon (Cotes Catalanes) by Marie Bories of Domaines de Blanes (French only site), deeper color and richer flavors with 50% Syrah and 50% Grenache (Around $15 retail).
Third, the poetic A Mi Chemin, Vin de Pays de l'Herault from Chateau de la Liquiere, on the lighter side with cherry tones, nice as an aperitif or with amuses, mostly Grenache (65%) with Carignan and Clairette to round up the blend ($14 to $15 retail).
For the new traditionalists, Vendanges d'Antan, Vin de Pays de la Vallee du Paradis (valley from paradise) by Mont Tauch (near Fitou) did not send me to heaven, a great little wine nevertheless made of Grenache Gris and Syrah and only about $9 Retail so a steal.
Last was the Domaine Montrose Rosé, Vin de Pays des Cotes de Thongue (near Pezenas), whose finish surprised me in a good way. It is 65% Grenache, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. They describe it as fresh, fruity, balanced. At the time of the tasting it was still looking for a distributor. It would retail for around $10.
The event took place at the Maison de La Region Languedoc-Roussillon in New York. Its official inauguration is scheduled for April 13, 2009.
Related: Sud de France in 130 Pictures