2011 Chateau Bizard Montagne de Raucoule

2011 in the Southern Rhone marks a break in the run of 'blockbuster' vintages that have alternated between early exuberance and more structured styles for keeping. Instead 2011 offers greater variability, with some wines described as overly tannic while others noted for their supple, juicy fruit characteristics that show right off the bat. In short, this is a vintage when careful selection pays dividends. Our policy of buying from five star producers that we know well and have been following for several years has paid off. While overall, it probably won't be hailed with the superlatives of 2009 and 2010, the Rhone Valley is a large and diverse terroir. To cast too wide a net would be naive, as these Chateau Bizard selections attest.

As a 50/50 Grenache-Syrah blend, the Montagne de Raucoule represents a cross roads style between north and south. Opaque black crimson colour with a purple red hue. With more fragrance than the Grangette the nose features aromas of black cherry and black raspberry followed by some liquorice and meaty spice like notes. Rich and bursting with voluptuous fruit the palate delivers mouth filling flavours of black raspberry and liquorice followed by black cherries and a hint of meatiness finishing with a very spicy back palate. Very fine grained tannins with just a touch of chewiness. Rich sumptuous mouth feel with a long aftertaste of liquorice, ripe black cherries, some meatiness and spice. Sums up what this underdog district is capable of at the price point.
Cell ar 5-6 years.
Alc 14%