2011 Chateau Bizard Grangette

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.

Chateau Bizard will be familiar to many readers as the reference point in the newly named appellation of Grignan-Les-Adhemar (formerly known as the Coteaux du Tricastin), located in the northernmost tip of the Southern Rhone. Predominately Grenache, the Grangette is a very deep dark purple red colour with a dark crimson purple hue. The nose is a little muted with black raspberry and liquorice emerging over a background of dried meats and spice. Rich succulent flavours of black cherry and black raspberry are followed by some liquorice, subtle dried meats and spice. Opulent mouth feel, with fine grained yet sturdy tannins. Long aftertaste of black cherry, liquorice, subtle dried meats and spice. A terrific drink now Rhone that will continue to fill out over the next 4-5 years.
Alc 14.5%