The Cellar: 2 Outstanding (unusual) Reds
Steffen Rasch, GoLocalProv Wine Writer
The Cellar: 2 Outstanding (unusual) Reds
As with most of the wines I review, this week’s two features are meant to challenge the way you shop for wine. That said, both of these wines are sure to please as they are both soft, delicious and easy drinking – not mention great values at way under $20 per bottle.
2011 Los Vascos ‘Grande Reserve’ Domanes Barons de Rothschild, Colchagua, Chile
Their 2011 Grande Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is technically a blend as it consists of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carmenère, 10% Syrah and 5% Malbec. I like this wine because it displays some of the great characteristics of both New and Old world Cab Sauv. I get a lot of savory aromas and flavors in this wine including nuts, herbs and astringent coffee – even bitter chocolate. There are also lovely ripe plum flavors. The wine is soft and full-bodied and there is an undeniable hint of vanilla (the wine was aged for 12 months in 50% new barrels) but also lingering acidity which keeps everything fresh and vibrant. Great wine for under $20.
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The family owned and operated Chateau Coupe Roses has around 100 acres of mountain vineyards located in the sub-region of ‘high’ Minervois. They make their wine utilizing traditional winemaking methods, meaning there are no additives in the wine and that the winemaker employ a ‘minimal intervention’ strategy during the winemaking process. Their 2011 ‘La Bastide’ is a blend of equal parts ‘old vine’ Carignan and Grenache with 5% Syrah. This is a delicious and super easy drinking wine: soft and rich in red fruit flavors and savory spices. However, the mountain fruit has helped preserve much of the important acidity making this wine refreshing on the finish.
Cheers.
Steffen Rasch is a Certified Sommelier and Specialist of Wine. Feel free to email him at [email protected] with any wine-related question or learn about wine in person by signing up for one of his tastings through the Providence Wine Academy.
Rhode Island’s Best Wineries
Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival, Newport
This is the Rhode Island festival that all others are judged against. Newport Mansions Wine and Food is in its ninth year of bringing together sublime food talent in a gorgeous Newport setting. This year is no different as the main headliners are Martha Stewart and Sara Moulton. They don't stop there though...imagine hundreds of wines to be sampled on the lawn of Marble House, tasty treats from lots of local restaurants, and appearances by local chefs like Champe Speidel preparing and serving their creations. You've got a bona fide classic! Tickets starts at $135. www.newportmansions.org
Newport Vineyards, Middletown
This vineyard was originally planted in 1977 with the goal of preserving the coastal land. Captain Richard Alexander planted 10 acres of French-American grapes in 1977 with the help of his family, friends, and neighbors. In 1988, in partnership with the Nunes family, Captain Alexander established his first winery. In 2002, the land was placed into perpetual preservation through a partnership between the Nunes Family, the Aquidneck Land Trust, and the State of Rhode Island.
Tours and tastings occur Sunday – Friday at 1 and 3 p.m. and hourly on Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. $12 per person for 5 samples; $15 per person for 5 samples plus signature glass. 909 East Main Rd. 848-5161,www.newportvineyards.com
Greenvale Vineyards, Portsmouth
Located along the beautiful Sakonnet River, Greenvale Vineyards has been in the family since 1863 and is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Cortlandt Parker, the farm’s fourth generation, and his wife Nancy started to grow grapes here as a hobby in the 1960’s. In the early 80’s, the Parkers decided to embark on the development of a commercial vineyard. The focus is on conservation of open space, preservation of historic buildings and the education of its visitors. Tastings occur daily and cost $12 for 7 varietals; tours are daily at 2 p.m. and are *$15 per person for the tour and tasting. 582 Wapping Rd. 847-3777, www.greenvale.com
Langworthy Farm Winery, Westerly
Langworthy Farm was built in 1875 on the historical home site of Governor Samuel Ward. Owners Joe and Gail Sharry first planted vinifera grape vines in 2002 and produced the first barrel of Chardonnay in stainless steel that same year. They now produce more than a dozen varietals, including 7 reds. Alongside the vineyard is a Victorian farmhouse bed and breakfast that the Sharrys operate in season. Meals, of course, are always paired with house wines.
Tastings run daily from July 4 through Labor Day and are $7 per person for 5 wines. 308 Shore Rd. 322-7791, www.langworthyfarm.com
Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyards, Little Compton
A popular and iconic Rhode Island vineyard, Sakonnet was founded in 1975 and for over 30 years has pioneered the production of fine wines in New England. Several vinifera varietals including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and the unique hybrid Vidal Blanc are grown, and Sakonnet also produces an award-winning Sparkling wine. This is Rhode Island’s largest vineyard, producing upwards of 30,000 cases annually.
Tours and tastings occur daily between noon and 3 and are $10. There is also a café and outdoor seating. 162 West Main Rd. 635-8486, www.sakonnetwine.com
