Events

Wines of the Rhone and Francois Villard
"Vinnaya Karta" №6(65) July 2005 "Vasha Vinnaya Karta" №6 July 2005

United Distributors launched a new format of portfolio tastings.

From now on they will be run as topical tastings-expositions with master classes given by well-known producers.

The first event featured wines of the Rhone Valley. New wines from UD portfolio were presented such as Tardieu-Laurent, Domaine Brusset, Domaine de la Mordoree, Domaine de Montillet, Domaine Le Couroulu, Domaine Daniel et Denis Alary, Domaine du Colombier, Domaine Alain Voge, Domaine Francois Villard, Domaine de Durban.

Francois Villard, a reputable winemaker of the Northern Rhone held a masterclass before the tasting. He commented the following wines.

Saint Joseph AOC Mairlant 2002  — 55 percent Marsanne and 45 percent Roussanne. The harvest took place at the beginning of October. Some of the grapes were affected by the noble rot. 30% of new oak barrels were used. The nose is of acacia bloom, almonds, mint. The flavours are softened by the barrel. Very oily, mineral with notes of wax and minted sweets. A soft finish, a little bit alcoholic. The wine can be drunk young, but it also ages well, according to Villard when it acquires the notes of petrol. To serve with grilled fish and white meat.

Condrieu AOC Terrasses du Palat 2002 is a white wine from Viognier grape. Very fresh aromas of green apricot, lime, mint. Full-bodied, rounded taste. A strong, but refined wine with good balance of acidity and notes of green apricots, minerals and smoke. The flavours continue in the aftertaste and once again highlight the nobility of the wine. To pair with neutral cheeses like brie and foie gras terrine.

Condieu AOC Deponcins 2002 is also a white Condrieu, but from a different vineyard. Shows the difference of the terroirs. The first wave of aromas gives notes of ripe apricots with honey notes followed by bright freshness with nuances of white flowers. More mineral taste, concentrated, a lot of vanilla from barrels. Impressive deep finish, continuing flavours of the palate.

Cote Rotie AOC Le Galet Blanc 2002 is a classic red Cote Rotie with Syrah and inclusion of white Viognier. A lovely nose of violets, velvety taste with live acidity and pleasant tannins. Medium-bodied with intense blackberry and wet stone flavours. A bright mineral finish. A lovely example of a terroir wine.

Saint Joseph AOC Reflet 2001 is 100 percent Syrah. Black, opaque colour with dark-purple rim. Developed animal nose. Fresh taste which takes by surprise with bright, nervy acidity. An elegant wine, but feels a bit untamed. Very deep mineral aftertaste with chocolate and light spices.