The weather is breezy but beautiful and we are all rejoicing that Spring is definitely here and Summer close behind. Picnics, BBQs and trips to the beach are crying out for lighter wines. Many whites will be consumed in the next few months, but don’t forget the dry Roses. These wines are undervalued and often mistaken for their sweeter and unimaginative “cousins”.
The Tavel wines are some of the best of their kind in the world. This has a lot to do with the fact that this is all they do. You won’t find white or red wines in this region. The wines are usually made form classic Rhone style grapes like Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvedre to name a few. The wine of Tavel is often referred to as the wine of kings because of its rich history. Ernest Hemingway considered it his favorite wines.
The 2012 Tavel Cuvee Du Roy is exceptionally good. It is made up of Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Clairette, Syrah and Picpoul. It has a beautiful deep pink, almost vermillion color that borders on red. These wines are well balanced with flavors of Bing Cherry, Raspberry, Strawberry and a hint of pepper.
Tavel is certainly a great warm weather wine for porch sipping but this is probably one of the most versatile food pairing wines you can find. Pizza, Chicken Liver Pate, Mousasaka, Goat Cheese, Scallops with Mushrooms all work very well. Try this for a great summer meal pairing: Steamed clams, Caprese salad, and Chicken barbecue with Strawberry Shortcake for dessert. Tavel works well with the whole meal.
Try it today for $12.99.
To our neighbors to the north: Happy Victoria Day!