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Digging up a Languedoc Treasure: Mas de Daumas Gassac 1978-2022
France, featured
, Jul 2024
Every ten years, Mas de Daumas Gassac organizes a vertical of their reds at the winery going back to the inaugural 1978 vintage. On this occasion, the winery presented 27 vintages of their flagship red, an incredible opportunity to examine the wines under a magnifying glass.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022: Bring It On
France: Rhône & Beaujolais, featured
, Jun 2024
After getting a good glimpse at the 2022 vintage while visiting other Rhône appellations last year, I was eager to see how Châteauneuf-du-Pape performed in a growing season marked by heat, drought and hail. The short answer is that 2022 is a very good vintage in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, clearly surpassing 2021 for the reds, though likely not at the same level as 2020. Overall consistency for reds in 2022 is higher than in 2021, and there are plenty of excellent wines cruising in an affordable price range.
2019 Château Montus and Bouscassé: A Premiere Glance
France, featured
, Apr 2024
For decades, the secluded Madiran AOC in Southwest France has quietly cultivated its reputation. Now, the spotlight turns to the 2019 releases from Château Montus and Bouscassé, unveiling wines shaped by evolving viticultural and winemaking practices. Antoine Veiry, the 30-year-old stepson of Alain Brumont, is driving this transformation as he leads both estates into a promising new era.
Northern Rhône: Where Diversity Ignites the Senses
France: Rhône & Beaujolais, featured
, Mar 2024
Diversity reigns supreme in the Northern Rhône Valley, with each appellation offering unique expressions. Despite climatic challenges, local vintners exhibit remarkable adaptability, ensuring the sustainability of their vineyards and the quality of their wines. This report unearths the distinct characteristics of the 2021 and 2022 vintages, from a high degree of variability of the former to the promising potential of the latter.
Gigondas: The Southern Rhône Jewel Shines and Adapts
France: Rhône & Beaujolais, featured
, Jan 2024
Gigondas, the Southern Rhône gem, finally moves ahead with the official Gigondas Blanc category as part of the inaugural 2023 vintage. This report unravels the time-consuming AOC adaptation process, delves into the region’s unique terroir and offers a thorough review of the promising 2022 and more mixed 2021 vintages.
Vacqueyras New Releases: Walking the Underdog
France: Rhône & Beaujolais, featured
, Nov 2023
In the sun-drenched vineyards of the Southern Rhône Valley, a captivating underdog story has been unfolding for years. Overshadowed by its prestigious neighbor, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the unassuming Vacqueyras appellation has been gaining attention for its affordable, high-quality wines. This report dives deep into the world of Vacqueyras, explores its characteristics, winemaking techniques and the latest four vintages, uncovering why this hidden gem deserves your attention.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape New Releases: Welcome to the Pleasuredome
France: Rhône & Beaujolais, featured
, Jun 2023
Embracing their sun-kissed terroir, the historic vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape continue to produce bold and complex wines. But winemakers face unprecedented challenges as climate change looms and a global shift away from overly alcoholic wines persists. This report takes a deep dive into these present-day challenges and a first-hand look at how winemakers are conquering adversity and shaping their own futures.