Box: September 2019
Le Tour
It is the event that lands right in the middle of every summer holiday. Le Tour (de France) spans July and 21 places across the country – some even known for wine! This month we try to do the same as we travel across France with Chez Greg to discover some new blends in old regions.
We find our first white near to the famous Mount Ventoux. In the shadow of Chateauneuf-du-pape, Chateau Ruth beings a rich, buttery blend that is full of taste and excitement. Traveling a little farther north we cross into the hills around Chablis, for a taste of the crisp chardonnay that the area is famous for. Then racing back down south for a blend of Grenache Blanc and Sauvignon. Spicy and wild.
The road of the reds starts in Bordeaux with a classic blend from the Giron. Indeed they call it “Superior” for a reason. Then we travel further East to Provence, for a taste of Merlot and Tannat that keeps us light on our feet and refreshed. Finishing up in the Rhone, we take on Mouvedre and Marsalan for that full, jammy flavor the region does so well.
So now the best part. Sit back, relax and take The Tour from your home and let IWCoK do the work!
Chateau de Ruth
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 280 Kč
Mike's Tip
This wine could be a Chateauneuf-du-Pape blanc little brother. Full and buttery, complex and long on the pallet. This will go well with salmon, lasagne or cheese dishes. Expect some intense flavor.
Le Petit Balthazar
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 11%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 190 Kč
Mike's Tip
This wine puts a crisp, lively feeling in your mouth! The freshnes of Sauvignon and the length and complexity of Viognier. This is kind of a camping knife of wines - not a perfect tool, but it goes with everyting ! Quality in a simple package - enjoy!
Beaubois
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 265 Kč
Mike's Tip
This is an organic 50/50 mix of Viognier and Vermentino - something I have never come across before. Lime and apricot, heavy peach, pear and oils to git a long finish in the mouth. Best with fried fish or toast. Too much for a salad!
Le Malicieux
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 180 Kč
Mike's Tip
An interesting blend based of a variety I didn't know existed - Grenache Blanc, with carignan and Sauvignon. This is likely where it gets its golden color. Light with medium acidity making it the right wine for opening drinks, salads and white fish.
Beaubois
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 265 Kč
Mike's Tip
Some of what the southern Rhone does best. This blend of Marsalan and Movedre makes for a spicy, smokey, forest fluit blend that makes a statement. Get past the berries and you find licorise and leather. Strong foods needed here, lamb or burgers covered with bacon. Don't be shy.
N7
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 230 Kč
Mike's Tip
Pale red, light tannin and a little spice. This Merlot / Tannat has a very strong cherry flavor, even for it's light appearance and body. Perfect for chicken!
Le Petit Balthazar
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Merlot
- Alcohol: 11%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 190 Kč
Mike's Tip
A merlot true to form. Medium body, decent tannins and a touch of acidity. Merlot is not everybodies "Go to" wine for relaxing on the sofa, because it needs food to work. Burgers, pork or even chicken as long as it is coming off the grill.
Chateau de Ribebon
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Chez Greg Père et Fils Praha
- Price: 279 Kč
Mike's Tip
Officially classified as a Bordeaux Superieur, this is a classis regional blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Look for hints of spice in this elegant wine that is suitable for any occasion.