Domaine Michel Lafarge L’Exception 2009
Passetoutgrain (pass-two-gran) from Burgundy is not a household name. The name roughly translates to ‘from all grapes’ and the wine is made from Pinot Noir and Gamay, in the case of Lafarge’s example, those grapes (from vines over 85 years old) are planted and fermented together in Volnay, along the border with Meursault, on the Cote D’Or. It makes for delicious and unique wine that drinks well young and can also age if you’re inclined to let it (but it will be tough, it’s too easy to drink right now). The result is floral wine with some spice from stem and a little leather, or, as I like to say, the best of both worlds of a Cru Beaujolais and a top-notch Bourgogne Rouge. This wine is fantastic with steak!
Domaine Les Aphillanthes Rosé
When May comes around, Rosé’s spring training is over and regular season has begun. The rosés of Provence may be the best known, but fantastic rosé wines are also made north of Provence in the Côtes-du-Rôone. Domaine Les Aphillanthes is a great example of Rhône rosés. An organically farmed (certified by Ecocert) blend of Cinsault, Grenache, Counoise and Mourvedre, this wine is a little darker than traditional ‘salmon’ colored rosés, but remains light on its feet and totally dry. It has a light to medium body with a nice balance of acidity, fresh red fruit flavors that pair wonderfully with grilled meats or salads. Get out and enjoy this wine in the sunshine.
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