The Rhône Valley, located in southeastern France, produces numerous wines under various Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designations and is one of France’s largest wine-producing regions. The northern Rhône, famous for its high-quality, brooding reds made almost entirely from the Syrah grape, generally commands higher prices. But the southern Rhône, where blending different grapes is the norm (13 different varieties are permitted), has long been considered the go-to region for value wines—less expensive and ready to enjoy. The labels on Rhône wines are easy to interpret, since they stick to the basics: the producer, the vintage and the area name. Unlike Bordeaux and Burgundy, there is no official classification, or “Cru” system, to memorize or worry about; you will not see terms like “Grand Cru” on Rhône wines.
2007 Clos du Mont-Olivet
A Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2007 Clos du Mont-Olivet (from the southern Rhône) is as refined and well crafted as a spectacular stained glass window in a countryside church. Visually we are treated to shades of ruby and violet framed in a watery pink edge around the glass. On the nose, what the old school would call “bouquet” and the newer generation, “aromatics,” the Clos du Mont-Olivet shows off black raspberries, charcoal, mineral and rose petals. I was tempted to dab a drop or two behind my ears.
It is silky on the palate, with a pleasing acidity just to make sure you take notice. And take notice you will, especially if you’re a fan of Rhône wines and the bright cherry liquor essence that some, including this one, are able to achieve.
The southern Rhône is best known for loads of sun and rocky, heat-absorbing soil. Ah, but this is the dilemma. It’s wonderful news for flavor development but presents a challenge for the winemaker, who must prevent overripe fruit from throwing the wine off balance. The Sabon family, owners and winemakers at Clos du Mont-Olivet for generations, have finessed this challenge to create elegant and harmonious wines.
Clos du Mont-Olivet will pair beautifully with pot-au-feu as well as other slow-cooked meat and game dishes.
Fortunately for wine lovers, 2007 was a showstopper of a vintage in the Rhône, which means that in general ’07 Rhônes will be excellent.
RSS
Clos du Mont-Olivet
by Lamar C
Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 04:59 PM
By Diana Rice
Clos du Mont-Olivet, 2007
Available at Mt. Kisco Wines & Spirits
Approximate retail price: $40
Rhône 101
The Rhône Valley, located in southeastern France, produces numerous wines under various Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designations and is one of France’s largest wine-producing regions. The northern Rhône, famous for its high-quality, brooding reds made almost entirely from the Syrah grape, generally commands higher prices. But the southern Rhône, where blending different grapes is the norm (13 different varieties are permitted), has long been considered the go-to region for value wines—less expensive and ready to enjoy. The labels on Rhône wines are easy to interpret, since they stick to the basics: the producer, the vintage and the area name. Unlike Bordeaux and Burgundy, there is no official classification, or “Cru” system, to memorize or worry about; you will not see terms like “Grand Cru” on Rhône wines.
2007 Clos du Mont-Olivet
A Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2007 Clos du Mont-Olivet (from the southern Rhône) is as refined and well crafted as a spectacular stained glass window in a countryside church. Visually we are treated to shades of ruby and violet framed in a watery pink edge around the glass. On the nose, what the old school would call “bouquet” and the newer generation, “aromatics,” the Clos du Mont-Olivet shows off black raspberries, charcoal, mineral and rose petals. I was tempted to dab a drop or two behind my ears.
It is silky on the palate, with a pleasing acidity just to make sure you take notice. And take notice you will, especially if you’re a fan of Rhône wines and the bright cherry liquor essence that some, including this one, are able to achieve.
The southern Rhône is best known for loads of sun and rocky, heat-absorbing soil. Ah, but this is the dilemma. It’s wonderful news for flavor development but presents a challenge for the winemaker, who must prevent overripe fruit from throwing the wine off balance. The Sabon family, owners and winemakers at Clos du Mont-Olivet for generations, have finessed this challenge to create elegant and harmonious wines.
Clos du Mont-Olivet will pair beautifully with pot-au-feu as well as other slow-cooked meat and game dishes.
Fortunately for wine lovers, 2007 was a showstopper of a vintage in the Rhône, which means that in general ’07 Rhônes will be excellent.