Rhône Southern Rhône Domaines M - Q By Derek Smedley MW Last Updated 5/11/2017 Derek Smedley MW, Rectory Cottage, Lilley, Hertfordshire, LU2 8LU. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 2
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Tasting notes from the following growers: Contents Domaine Maby... 6 Tavel... 6 Domaine de Marcoux... 6 Châteauneuf du Pape... 6 Domaine Martin... 7 Travaillan... 7 Mas Carlot... 7 Costières du Nimes... 7 Mas de la Font... 7 Côtes du Ventoux... 7 Domaine Mayard... 8 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 8 Domaine Jean-Pierre Meffre... 9 Gigondas... 9 Domaine Monardiére... 9 Vacqueyras... 9 Château de Montfaucon... 9 Montfaucon... 9 Domaine Montirius... 10 Sarrians... 10 Château Mont-Redon... 11 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 11 Domaine de La Mordorée... 12 Tavel... 12 Moulin de la Gardette... 12 Gigondas... 12 3 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Domaine de Mourchon... 13 Séguret... 13 Château La Nerthe... 14 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 14 Domaine des Oullières... 14 Coteaux d Aix-en-Provence... 14 Domaine Les Pallières... 14 Gigondas... 14 Domaine Palon... 15 Gigondas... 15 Domaine du Pegau... 15 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 15 Domaine du Père Caboche... 16 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 16 Domaine du Père Papes... 16 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 16 Famille Perrin... 17 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 17 Château Pesquié... 28 Côtes du Ventoux... 28 Domaine Pesquier... 29 Gigondas... 29 Domaine de la Pigeade... 29 Beaumes de Venise... 29 Domaine de Pignan... 30 Châteauneuf-du-Pape... 30 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 4
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 5 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Rhône Valley Date & place of tasting shown in italics Growers / Wineries are in alphabetical order with area underneath Southern Rhône Domaines M - Q Domaine Maby Tavel Rosé Wines Tavel La Forcadière 2011 89 2012-15 Grenache Noir Cinsault + 15 % of 6 other varietals Tasted in London at the Yapp Brothers tasting September 2012 The mix of strawberry and loganberry is quite rich but there are some raspberry and redcurrant fresher flavours that balance. The back palate has a racy feel quite good length with lots of different flavours coming through on the finish. Domaine de Marcoux Châteauneuf du Pape White Wines Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2005 89 2007-12 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 The nose is light but has a fragrant red fruit mix. The palate has a mineral herbal feel with sweetness of fruit showing towards the back. Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2005 89 2009-16 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 The nose has good depth of fruit with a fruit mix that has complexity and interest. There bis a fragrance to the palate with sweetness of flavour and complexity of fruits showing at the back. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes 2005 93 2009-16 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 6
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Concentrated ripe power enriches the nose. The fruits are mixed red and black with a touch of minerality. The ripeness of the tannins ensures fleshy feel on the finish Domaine Martin Travaillan Côtes du Rhône 2010 89 2013-17 Tasted at the Carlton Club July 2013 Red and black fruits give interest on the nose and the palate has the richness of black cherry with the freshness of wild raspberry. The fruit is ripe the tannins although structured fine with sweet fruit filling out the peppery finish. Côtes du Rhône 2014 90 2016-22 Tasted at the Carlton Club September 2014 The nose is fresh youthful with a mix of red and black fruits the palate sweeter the fruit supported by firm but ripe tannins. Rich at the back the finish is a bit tight but there is more fruit to show with time. Mas Carlot Costières du Nimes White Wines Mas Carlot Roussanne Marsanne 2009 89 2010-12 Roussanne 60% Marsanne 30% Viognier 10% Tasted at Lincoln s Inn October 2010 The nose has the freshness of lime with behind richer sweeter pineapple. Sweet fruit gives weight on the mid palate but towards the back the citric and apple freshness come through giving a brighter feel to the finish. Mas de la Font Côtes du Ventoux White Wines Roussanne Viognier 2009 85 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Tasted at Edward Parker Wines London September 2010 The nose has the hardness of green apples and whilst there is more richness on the palate, a rather buttery feel there is some spiky acidity underneath. Hazel nuts rather over dominate the fruit and the finish has a vegetal character. 7 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Rosé Wines Grenache Syrah Rosé 2009 84 Côtes du Ventoux Tasted at Edward Parker Wines London September 2010 The nose has a confected pear drop character which tends to show and dominate the palate. There is a lack of fruit in the middle and the finish is unpleasantly grubby. Grenache Syrah 2009 84 Côtes du Ventoux Tasted at Edward Parker Wines London September 2010 The black fruits that are very much in evidence on the nose have a green herbal edge. The mid palate lacks weight any sweetness that might be there dominated by drying tannins giving a hard short finish. Domaine Mayard Châteauneuf-du-Pape Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau de Ma Mère 2005 91 2012-18 Tasted in London May 2008 The nose has an appealing complexity, the black fruits refreshed by the lighter reds. Full and sweet on the palate with lovely weight of fruit, the layers of flavour give complexity and the black pepper spice lifts the finish. Tasted at Mercers Hall September 2013 93 2014-22 There is a lot happening on the nose a mix of flavours black fruits with some fresher red. The palate has ripe flavours fleshy rich in the middle a lovely suppleness. There are enough red fruits and fresh black fruits to give a slightly lighter feel on the back palate but it finishes with all the richness of ripe fruit. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Clos du Calvaire 2006 86 2009-14 Tasted in Lilley April 2009 It is remarkably light and although black fruits are in evidence they tend to be dominated by the fresher red. The tannins feel hard and close down the finish. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 8
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Domaine Jean-Pierre Meffre Gigondas Gigondas Saint Gayan 2012 89 2016-21 Tasted in the Carlton Club March 2016 A blend of the classic grapes the nose has freshness red fruits pepper and spice the palate broader richer and sweeter with more of a black fruit influence at the back. There is an underlying brightness the finish though sweet with black pepper spiciness. Domaine Monardiére Vacqueyras Vacqueyras Cuvée les 2 Monardes 2007 87 2009-12 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2009 The nose has a mix of fragrances all very red fruited and the palate starts with red fruited freshness. It is sweeter in the middle and there is black fruited richness at the back. Vacqueyras Vieilles Vignes 2007 90 2009-13 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2009 The black fruited mix is rich and powerful with fleshy bramble and mulberry on the mid palate. The sweetness is balanced by fresher fruit that shows through at the back leaving the finish slightly lighter. Château de Montfaucon Montfaucon Côtes du Rhône Baron Louis 2007 90 2010-13 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2010 The sweetness of the bramble gives flesh on the nose and richness on the palate. Behind the sweetness there are brighter red fruits that refresh but right at the back the blackberry richness re-emerges filling out the back palate. Côtes du Rhône 2008 86 2011-13 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2010 9 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE There is not a lot showing on the nose and the red fruits on the palate are very fresh given hardness by rather aggressive tannins. Although there are some sweeter black fruits towards the back tannic firmness over powers them. Côtes du Rhône 2012 89 2014-20 Tasted at the Loeb tasting Caledonian Club London February 2014 Behind the red fruits on the nose there are some richer black and the palate is rather the same red fruited freshness at first with sweeter black underneath. It fills out a bit at the back but the finish has red fruited freshness. Domaine Montirius Sarrians Côtes du Rhône Serine 2012 92 2016-22 Serine 100% an old varietal of Syrah Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting Caledonian Club London February 2014 The fruit is very concentrated the black fruited mix underpinned by herbal leafiness. Tight tannins give mid structure but behind the firmness there is a sweet black fruited power with lots of rich fruit ready to show. Vacqueyras Garrigues 2007 88 2008-12 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 The nose is fresh quite light but the palate is richer sweeter fruited with some black fruits cassis and bramble under the wild strawberry. The finish is quite light but has charm. Vacqueyras Clos Montirius 2007 89 2009-13 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 The fruit feels ripe the nose has depth and richness and there is a nice weight of flavour on the palate. The sweet fruit is backed by fresher red but it fills out towards the back with lots of rich flavours. Vacqueyras le Clos 2008 87 2011-14 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2010 There is some sweet fruit on the nose giving richness but behind there is cherry acidity. The palate has lots of chewy fruit, the firmness of the tannins adding to the tightness on the finish. Gigondas Terres des Ainés 2007 88 2009-13 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 The nose has floral charm red fruited freshness and although the start of the palate is light the mid palate is richer with ripe red fruits. The back palate has strawberry richness but the finish is lighter with fresher raspberry and redcurrant. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 10
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Gigondas Terres des Ainés 2012 89 2016-22 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting Caledonian Club London February 2014 The nose is a bit tight fresh red fruited and the start of the palate light quite fragrant. The mid palate has more depth richer flavours still very red fruit in character and the finish has a red cherry firmness. Gigondas Terres des Aînés 2013 91 2016-23 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2015 Fresh and red fruited the nose is quite light the start of the palate richer with fleshy mulberry and red cherry. The fruit feels ripe the sweet fruit gives richness on the mid palate. Lighter and fresher at the back but the fruit on the finish is rich a good depth of flavour. Gigondas Confidentiel 2007 89 2009-13 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 There is a mix of fruits on the nose red fruits appear to dominate but behind is bilberry and bramble. The palate is very much the same red fruited at start with richer black fruits at the back. Château Mont-Redon Châteauneuf-du-Pape White Wines Côtes du-rhône Blanc 2013 89 2015-18 Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians July 2015 The nose is fresh but quite light and the start of the palate has mix of citrus fruits. Richer in the middle greengage in character the richness balanced by the freshness that comes through at the back. Lirac Blanc 2013 90 2015-18 Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians July 2015 Fresh on the nose a lime and lemon mix the start of the palate has the same citric freshness. Richer in the middle some tropical fruits and apricot the richness is balanced by freshness at the back the fruit lasting well on the finish. Lirac Blanc 2014 88 2016-19 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 The nose is firm the palate fresh with lots of lemon and lime. Hints of tropical fruits give more depth and richness in the middle but citrus dominates the back palate which is lacking in generosity. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015 90 2018-23 11 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 Fresh fruits lime and lemon the nose is bright the start of the palate crisp. There is mid richness ripe peach and tropical fruits sweet at the back with apple and citrus giving freshness on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2015 91 2020-26 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 Red fruit gives freshness on the nose the start of the palate is light and bright. The tannins are ripe the mid palate has depth and sweetness the rich fruit filling out the back palate and finish. Domaine de La Mordorée Tavel Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge La Dame Rousse 2011 88 2014-18 Tasted at Lincoln s Inn March 2013 There are mainly red fruits on the nose fresh and peppery but the palate has sweeter flavours more depth with layers of fruit. The tannins are firm at the moment and although there is a mix of sweet red and black fruits towards the back the finish is very tight. Lirac La Dame Rousse 2005 87 2007-10 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 The nose is light and fresh with fragrant redcurrants and wild strawberries. There is freshness on the palate with quite light red fruits showing at the back. Lirac La Reine des Bois 2005 88 2007-10 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 There is depth on the nose, with lots of complex flavours on the palate. The black fruits overshadow the red at first but the redcurrant comes through. There is a lovely length of flavour. Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Reine des Bois 2005 91 2009-16 Tasted at the Genesis Tasting November 2006 The fruit is ripe and there is a complex mix of red and black fruits on both nose and palate. The sweetness is tempered with a touch of pepper spice. Sweet and rounded tannins help to flesh out the back palate and give richness on the finish Moulin de la Gardette Gigondas www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 12
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Gigondas Cuvèe Tradition 2008 91 2013-18 Grenache 80% Mourvèdre 10% Cinsault 10% Tasted at the Carlton Club July 2013 The slopes of Les Dentelles de Montmirail in the southern Rhône have soils that produce the best from the trio of local grapes. The nose is rich sweet fruited and peppery and the palate lush with ripe tannins liquorice richness and blackberry. Towards the back hints of red fruits refresh and balance. Steak and kidney and Gigondas make an enjoyable pairing. Domaine de Mourchon Séguret Family Réserve 2007 91 2012-19 Grenache 100% Tasted at the Carlton Club January 2011 The nose is packed with black fruit all underpinned by peppery spices. The palate has a bitter sweet mix, first fresher red fruits with behind black cherry and fig underpinned by liquorice. The tannins are structured rather holding back the fruit at the moment but there is much more to show. Grande Réserve 2006 92 2010-18 Grenache 65% Syrah 35 % Tasted at the Carlton Club January 2011 The black fruits and liquorice on the nose are backed by peppery spice. The palate has a meaty richness enhanced by black cherries and liquorice. There are layers of flavour with more herbal red fruits giving mid freshness and adding to the complexity. It is seductive and complex fleshy and rich. Grande Réserve 2008 91 2013-20 Syrah 100 % Tasted at the Carlton Club January 2011 Violets feature on the nose backed by a mix of red and black fruits. Spice and pepper enliven the palate the sweetness vying with the freshness and firm tannins for dominance. The youth and powerful structure tend to overpower the fruit on the back palate but under the firmness there is a lot of sweet fruit. Domaine de Mourchon Grand Réserve 2011 91 2014-21 Grenache 65% Syrah 35 % Tasted at the Carlton Club April 2014 13 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE The vineyard lies between the village of Séguret and the Mont Ventoux producing wines with depth of flavour. Rich on the nose the palate has black fruited power with liquorice sweetness in the middle yet at the back it is herbal and leafy the Grenache in the blend. Red fruited Syrah freshness enhances the black pepper spiciness on the finish. The freshness the spice suits pork but the richness goes well with venison and wild boar. Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2013 91 2016-24 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2015 Sweet and ripe the nose has depth the palate fleshy richness. Balancing the sweetness bramble refreshes and although lighter at the back the finish has depth and sweetness. Domaine des Oullières Coteaux d Aix-en-Provence White Wines Domaine des Oullières 2011 88 2012-15 Rolle Grenache Blanc Ugni Blanc Tasted in London at the Yapp Brothers tasting September 2012 There is a lot of rich fruit on the nose with the sweetness of apricot and the depth of greengage. The mid palate is fresh the tannins a bit obvious and this is tending to hold back the fruit and shorten the finish. Domaine Les Pallières Gigondas Gigondas Les Racines 2011 92 2014-20 Grenache Cinsault Clairette Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 The nose has a nice depth of fruit with a strong black fruited influence. Whilst there is richness and sweetness on the mid palate towards the back it feels fresher with a mix of red fruits under the black plum. Tasted at the Carlton Club February 2015 93 2015-21 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 14
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 The nose is rich and full of ripe fruit the palate has power depth of flavour sweet and supple. Bramble towards the back lightens but the rich ripe fruit is there on the finish fleshy and sweet. Gigondas Les Racines 2014 91 2019-25 Tasted at the Clarion tasting Middle Temple November 2015 The fruit on the nose is sweet and ripe the palate starts lighter and fresher with a bramble bilberry mix. There is depth of fruit at the back sweet and ripe, fleshy and rich but underlying red fruits lighten and refresh the finish. Domaine Palon Gigondas Gigondas 2009 92 2011-17 Tasted in Lilley March 2011 The nose is filled with rich ripe fruit blueberry and bramble. The palate has a lovely supple richness powerful flavours depth with ripe black fruits. Behind the richness there is enough freshness to balance and bring out the peppery spice that shows on the finish. Vacqueyras 2008 91 2011-17 Grenache Mourvèdre Syrah Tasted in Lilley March 2011 It is quite firm on the nose very black fruited with rich sloe and black cherry supported by ripe tannins. The mid palate has lovely fruit but it feels more structured more classic. The back palate has black pepper that spices up the fruit. Domaine du Pegau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Plan Pegau NV 88 2016-22 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 The fruit on the nose is fresh fragrant but light the start of the palate bright tending to lack mid richness. Hints of sweeter fruit at the back but the tannins are quite obvious and firm the finish a bit tight. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée 92 2015-22 Grenache 80% Syrah 6% Mourvèdre 4% Others 10% Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 15 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE The nose although quite light has a lovely mix of fragrances red fruits with light fresh black some bilberry. The fruit on the mid palate is rich and sweet a good depth of flavour but it feels fresher more red fruited on the finish. Domaine du Père Caboche Châteauneuf-du-Pape Petit Caboche 2009 87 2011-15 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Tasted at Lincoln s Inn October 2011 The nose has the freshness of red fruits all quite light but fragrant. The mid tannins are firm rather holding back the fruit and although there is a little more sweetness towards the back it lacks real depth and richness. Petit Caboche 2013 89 2015-18 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Tasted in Lincoln s Inn February 2015 Tasted at the Yapp tasting Hardy s Restaurant April 2015 Raspberry freshness the nose is light with a mix of fragrances. Sweeter in the middle more of a ripe strawberry character then fresher red fruits dominate the back palate the finish just lacking in real depth. Domaine du Père Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2005 93 2009-16 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 It feels ripe and lush on the nose which is packed with ripe fruit. There is richness of fruit on the palate, ripe but brightened by mid freshness. It has good length. Tasted at Lincoln s Inn October 2012 91 2013-20 The nose is more red fruit driven with lots of spicy black pepper. The mid palate has some rich flavours but it is lighter more red cherry towards the back. The tannins although structured feel ripe not overpowering the fruit. Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau de Ma Mère 2001 91 2006-14 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 The nose is light and fragrant. The fruit on the palate is ripe and there are lots of sweet berried fruits. The hints of pepper come through towards the back and the finish has good depth. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 16
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau de Ma Mère 2005 91 2009-16 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 There is lovely ripe fruit on the nose. The palate has depth and has a lush sweet, fleshy feel. Behind all the power there is complexity and an attractive freshness that lifts the fruit on the finish. Famille Perrin Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape White Wines La Vieille Ferme Blanc 2012 88 2013-16 Luberon There is mineral citrus freshness on the nose and the start of the palate with greengage giving a richer feel in the middle. The finish is lighter racy and fresh. Miraval Blanc 2012 89 2013-16 Côtes de Provence Lemon refreshes the nose with ripe melon on the palate fleshy and rich. Towards the back the citrus tends to take over and although there is an underlying fruit sweetness the finish is very citrus driven. L Oustalet Organic Blanc 2013 92 2014-18 Grenache Blanc Viognier Marsanne Clairette Bourboulenc Tasted at Lincoln s Inn October 2014 The nose has a mix of fragrances fresh lime and lemon and the palate starts quite fresh. Peachy in the middle the fruit is sweeter the richer flavours underpinned by freshness the finish long with flavours that last. Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2012 88 2013-17 The nose is fresh but firm and the start of the palate tight with citrus and apple. There is a sweeter richer feel to the mid palate some fleshy greengage but it finishes light firm and fresh. Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2014 89 2015-19 Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians July 2015 The nose has depth of fruit the palate an apricot richness. Under the sweet fruit the mix of citrus fruits gives a lighter fresher feel but the apricot and peach richness is there at the back and on the finish. 17 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Luberon Blanc 2014 89 2015-18 Tasted in Lilley April 2015 This blend of local grapes from the Southern Rhône has a lovely mix of richness yet freshness. The nose is fragrant, white flowered with a mix of herbs reminiscent of the array of herbs that grow wild in the hills of the region. The palate is peachy with tropical fruits backed by tangerine freshness. A great glass for the late spring, a wine that goes well with deep fried and roasted fish dishes and certainly makes good partner to the salads and pasta. Luberon Blanc 2015 88 2016-19 Tasted in the Mansion House July 2016 The nose has a rich mix of fruits the start of the palate peachy and quite sweet. Fresh in the middle herbal some grapefruit and tangerine the back palate is citrusy bright and fragrant. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc 2002 90 2005-10 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 The nose is very fragrant attractive light fresh fruited. The mid palate has depth yet at the back freshness citrus and apple attractive charming quite complex. It feels lighter at the back with a long flowing finish. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc 2004 90 2006-10 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 Greengage backed by a trace of apricot gives a lovely complex feel to the nose. Although fresh and crisp at first there is a good weight of sweet fruit coming through enriching the back palate and ensuring depth of flavour on the long finish. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc 2009 92 2012-18 Tasted at the Bibendum Tasting November 2010 The nose has a lovely floral charm, fresh greengage, hints of lime and then richer apricot. The palate has lots of fresh fruit with beneath rich ripe greengage and apricot. Tropical fruits add to the complexity the freshness towards the back gives it elegance and length. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Blanc 2012 91 2012-18 Pineapple gives richness on the nose and depth on the start of the palate. The sweet fruit the fleshy pear is backed by grapefruit giving a lovely zingy freshness at the back and on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2005 92 2008-14 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 The nose has power and depth of fruit, a complex mix of greengage, limes and tropical fruit. It is rich and sweet in the middle with freshness coming through and adding to the length. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2011 92 2014-20 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 18
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Ripe fruit gives richness and depth on the nose and the palate starts with pineapple and plum. Under the richness the mix of lime and apple refreshes and brings out the fragrances on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2012 92 2015-22 The nose has the richness of ripe greengage and pear and the palate has depth and richness of flavour. There is still the feeling of youth apple freshness in the middle but the finish is deep rich profound. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2015 93 2018-23 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 The nose has the richness of ripe fruit the start of the palate is sweet peachy with tropical fruits. There is balance freshness a hint of citrus under the mid richness but it fills out at the back with ripe fruit on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2012 93 2015-22 Herbal leafy the nose has lots of character and the palate a racy freshness. Greengage and pear enrich the mid palate and although there is fruit power at the back the finish has lovely herbal green leaf freshness. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2015 92 2018-23 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 Herbal citrusy the nose is fresh the start of the palate leafy with lime and apple. Sweet fruit in the middle ripe pear a hint of greengage but at the back the fresh fruits dominate steely and mineral yet there is a hint of sweetness on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Les Sinard 2012 92 2014-20 Pears, melons and ripe greengage give depth on the nose and richness on the palate. Although the ripe fruit fills the mid palate and gives fleshiness towards the back there is a citrus undertone that refreshes and balances. Rosé Wines La Vieille Ferme Rosé 2012 88 2013-14 Luberon Rose petals fragrance is backed by wild strawberry and raspberry. The mid palate is light raspberry fresh and the finish has the same red fruited freshness. Miraval Rosé 2012 89 2013-16 Côtes de Provence 19 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE The nose has rose petal fragrances light and fresh. There is a sweeter feel on the mid palate but at the back the dryness and freshness dominates leaving the finish quite firm. Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2012 89 2013-15 There is a lot of fruit on the nose with redcurrant freshness and the palate feels quite lean. It has a little more weight on the back palate with a fresh red fruited finish. L Oustalet Organic Rouge 2014 90 2016-21 Grenache Syrah Tasted at the Mansion House July 2016 Fresh and fruity the nose has a strong red fruit influence and the palate has a red cherry raspberry mix. Sweeter in the middle and at the back still lots of red fruits the finish is slightly lighter and has good length La Vieille Ferme Rouge 2012 89 2013-18 Ventoux Bramble is to the fore sweet ripe underpinned by rounded tannins all quite supple and fleshy. The back palate has depth sweetness yet the finish is an exuberant brightness. Ventoux Rouge 2013 89 2015-19 Tasted in Lilley April 2015 Still a lesser know area of the Southern Rhône one that produces slightly lighter red wines very suitable as a lunchtime glass and for the warmer days of Spring. Bramble sweet black fruits give depth and richness at the start but the mid palate is lighter and fresher with quite a strong red cherry influence at the back. The black pepper spice excitement suits char grilled meats and venison a spiciness that goes well with pasta and cheese. Ventoux Rouge 2014 90 2015-20 Tasted at Lincoln s Inn November 2015 Bright and fresh the nose is dominated by red fruits the start of the palate light. It fills out in the middle depth of flavour the red fruits underpinned by sweeter black. Rich fruit at the back but the finish is lighter fresh and has good length. Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2012 91 2014-19 The black fruited mix has concentration and depth black cherry with a touch of blackcurrant. The palate is firm the tannins quite obvious yet not aggressive and there is more fruit to come out richness that will develop with time. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 20
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Côtes du Rhône Rouge Nature 2012 91 2014-19 Ripe fruits enrich the nose and give flesh on the palate. Under the black cherry bramble gives a lighter fresher feel yet at the back there are layers of powerful black fruits richness and good depth. Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge 2012 91 2014-19 The nose is light the palate red fruited fragrant but there are black fruits underneath a brooding richness. The sweetness in the middle is balanced by freshness on the finish. Côtes du Rhône Réserve Perrin 2004 89 2006-12 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 There is good weight on the nose with sweetness of fruit. It is not too heavy on the palate, the fruit has some complexity and there is good length. Peyre Blanche Cairanne Côtes du Rhône Villages 2012 91 2014-18 Red cherry freshness is backed by sweet cassis with the black cherry on the mid palate giving a firmer more structured feel. Youthful and fresh fruited at the back the layers of red currant and bilberry give lots of complexity. Vinsobres Vieilles Vignes Les Haut de Julien 2011 92 2014-24 Grenache Syrah Tasted at Leathersellers November 2012 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 The mix of fruits on the nose is fresh and very red fruit in character. Red cherry and some bramble are underpinned by wild strawberry a lovely mix of flavours. There is richness yet some freshness that brings out a peppery spiciness on the finish. Vinsobres Vieilles Vignes Les Haut de Julien 2012 91 2015-21 The nose is tight the start of the palate firm with red and black cherry layers of flavour. It fills out in the middle with some richer and sweeter fruit but the tannins are obvious firm and tend to close down the back palate and finish. Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2005 90 2008-14 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 It feels fleshy on both nose and palate from the lovely mix of ripe fruits. There are fresher flavours coming through in the middle balancing the richness. Hints of black pepper spice up the finish. 21 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2008 91 2011-17 Tasted at the Middle Temple March 2010 The fruit is rich and ripe giving weight of flavour on the nose and richness on the palate. Black cherry is very much to the fore with behind it bramble and bilberry. Cracked black pepper gives spicy excitement towards the back. Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2010 88 2012-16 Tasted at the Bibendum Rhône Tasting November 2011 The nose is quite light but is full of attractive fragrances. The red fruits on the palate are lovely and fresh but lack concentration and there is a lack of weight and depth on the back palate and finish. Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2012 91 2014-18 Black fruits are rich the nose has depth and the start of the palate breadth of flavour. The tannins are still firm the back palate slightly tight and the finish has more of a red fruited freshness. Vinsobres Les Cornuds 2014 89 2017-20 Tasted in Mercers Hall May 2017 The nose is sweet and ripe a mix of black and red fruits the sweetness underpinned by the fresher red fruits. Firm at the back the tannins tight and although there is richness on the back palate the finish is fresh and quite tight. L Andréal Rasteau 2012 89 2014-17 Red fruits are fresh a mix of redcurrant as raspberry and although the start of the palate is richer the mid palate is very fresh fruited with the finish light quite racy. Vacqueyras Les Christins Perrin 2002 89 2006-10 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 It has a firm feel to the nose but there are some attractive fruits showing. The palate is lighter quite sweet but with a fragrant freshness in the middle. There is fair depth towards the back with hints of maturity Vacqueyras Les Christins Perrin 2005 89 2008-12 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 On the nose there is a black pepper edge to the fruit. The mix of red and black fruits on the palate gives some complexity. Black fruits dominate the back palate all quite sweet and this tends to enrich the finish. Vacqueyras Les Christins Perrin 2012 91 2015-20 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 22
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Black fruits intermingle with red fruits both rich and feeling ripe. Behind the mid sweetness the tannins are firm the fruit fresh quite rich yet youthful with more depth and sweetness of flavour showing on the finish. Gigondas La Gille 2012 91 2015-22 Tasted at the Carlton Club February 2015 The fruit is ripe the nose rich and sweet the start of the palate fleshy and lush. Under the rich black fruited flavours there is freshness more of a red cherry character that gives a lighter feel on the back palate. The finish though has lots of rich ripe fruit. Gigondas La Grille 2014 91 2018-24 Tasted at the Clarion tasting Middle Temple November 2015 Fragrant and fresh on the nose the start of the palate is light with a mix of fruits. Sweet in the middle depth of fruit the ripeness of the fruit gives richness at the back the finish though is lighter and quite fresh. Gigondas L Argnée Vieilles Vignes 2012 91 2014-20 Bright and fresh the nose has lots of red fruits and the start of the palate is quite light with redcurrant and bramble. There is more depth in the middle with some rich sweet fruit but it finishes light and fresh. Gigondas L Argnée Vieilles Vignes 2014 92 2018-24 Tasted at the Clarion tasting Middle Temple November 2015 The nose is bright the start of the palate sweet with a mix of ripe fruits the black fruits to the fore. There is a balancing freshness but it fills out on the back palate with depth of fruit on the finish. Gigondas Les Hauts de Julien Vieilles Vignes 2011 93 2015-22 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 The nose has a mix of flavours with the fresh red fruits backed by richer sweeter black. The palate mirrors the nose some fresh raspberry and bramble underpinned by black cherry with the richer fruits filling out the back palate and finish. Gigondas Clos du Tourelles 2012 91 2015-20 The rich black fruits give a sweet start to the palate but the mid palate is fresher with more of a red fruited influence. There are sweet black fruits underneath giving richness but the finish has the firmness of black cherry. Gigondas Clos du Tourelles 2013 92 2016-23 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2015 23 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE There are a lot of powerful flavours on the nose and the start of the palate is sweet with a mix of red and black fruits. Depth in the middle quite supple with ripe tannins and although firm still at the back the finish has sweet fruited richness. Gigondas Clos du Tourelles 2015 92 2019-25 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 Concentrated black fruits the nose has depth the palate fleshy richness. Meaty concentrated flavours the fruit is ripe the tannins fine and although it is supple and fleshy at the back there is a balancing freshness the finish light and peppery. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2005 91 2009-15 Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 There are fragrant red fruits on the nose backed by pepper and spice. A mass of berry fruit fleshes out the palate. Although rich and ripe there is enough acidity to freshen and ensure length. It has a rich fleshy end Tasted at Dyers Hall November 2010 91 2011-16 There is a lot happening on the nose first red cherry and redcurrant then bramble and black cherry. The complex mix of flavours is very much in evidence on the palate the sweetness of the black fruits well balanced by the freshness of the red. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2007 93 2012-20 Tasted at the Carlton Club July 2012 The nose is packed with autumn hedgerow berries slightly wild the bramble having a herbal racy quality. The sweetness of the fruit fleshes out the mid palate supple easy with rounded tannins. There are layers of flavour at the back giving lots of complexity and the finish has the same slightly rustic mix of berried fruits. The wine cries out for game pheasant, duck, partridge, venison and rabbit. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2009 94 2014-25 Tasted at the Bibendum Tasting November 2010 The fruit is ripe giving sweetness and richness on both nose and palate. Red fruits show first with behind richer blackberry and black cherry. The complex mix is backed by herbal spice lovely and racy yet the back palate is rich and deep full of fruit with more black than red in evidence. Tasted at the Dyers July 2013 93 2014-22 The nose has smoky black fruits with lots of black cherry and bramble. The palate is sweet fruited chunky rich with powerful flavours but the juicy richness is underpinned by freshness red cherry and raspberry giving a slightly lighter finer feel to the finish and bringing out some black pepper spice. Tasted at the Carlton Club October2014 93 2014-20 Smoky on the nose there is a good depth of flavour. The palate has the richness of ripe fruit fleshy and supple with in the middle layers of flavour black and red fruits lots of complexity. Fresher on the back palate red fruits coming to the fore a black pepper spiciness rich sweet fruit is there at the back enriching the finish. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 24
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2010 93 2015-25 Tasted at the Bibendum Rhône Tasting November 2011 There is a great deal happening on the nose black fruits intermingling with fresher red. The layers of fruit on the palate give complexity the fruit is ripe giving sweetness richness on the mid palate and depth of flavour on the back. The back palate is full of fruit and has a lovely mix of flavours. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2011 92 2015-25 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 Blackberry and blackcurrant are rich and ripe backed by fresher bilberry. The mid palate is sweet with fine tannins layers of fruit giving complexity the sweetness of the fruit filling out the back palate and giving depth on the finish. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2012 93 2015-25 Rich fruit fills the nose lots of ripe black fruits and the palate has depth a brooding richness profound fleshy. Towards the back there is bilberry and bramble freshness that lightens but the finish has power richness and depth of flavour. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2013 93 2016-26 Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2015 The fruit is ripe the nose rich and deep. Black fruits are very much to the fore some firm black cherry underpinned by bramble and bilberry richness and power yet freshness. Ripe fruit enriches the back palate yet there is enough freshness to give the finish fragrance and elegance. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2014 91 2018-27 Tasted at the Clarion tasting Middle Temple November 2015 Ripe fruit on the nose the palate has a mix of sweet black fruits depth of flavour in the middle. The rich fruit is underpinned by freshness a bilberry and red fruit mix lighter at the back fragrant yet the finish has depth and richness. Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2015 91 2019-27 Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 The nose is quite light with the freshness of red fruits the start of the palate more black fruit in character a bramble and bilberry mix. There is mid sweetness fair depth at the back the finish lighter with a mix of fresh fruits. Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2000 93 2016-22 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 25 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Leafy nutty fragrant on the nose the palate has charm autumn leaf maturity. Red fruits and black fruits there is a lot happening on the palate the fruit in the middle sweet and ripe the tannins discreet. Sweet fruit at the back the finish is lighter fragrant with hints of black pepper. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2001 93 2010-18 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Oxford & Cambridge Club June 2012 The nose is spicy with a mix of autumnal hedgerow fruits slightly rustic. The palate starts fresh with lots of raspberry in evidence but under the red fruits there is some bramble quite complex. The feel at the back is one of maturity with autumn leaves hints of hazel nuts lovely elegant and mature. 94 2013-18 Hedgerow fruits give lots of interest all backed by leafy maturity and spice. The mid palate is quite fresh bramble and red cherry with slightly more depth towards the back with a leafy nutty maturity giving an elegant charm to the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2005 92 2010-18 Château de Beaucastel Tasted in London at Goedhuis November 2006 Tasted at the Carlton Club February 2015 Tasted at the Carton Club June 2016 93 2916-24 The nose has lots of fruit all of which feels ripe and lush. There is depth of flavour on the palate, a complex mix of red and black fruits with pepper and spice. It is sweet in the middle with a rich ripe Fleshy finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2007 93 2017-25 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Carton Club January 2017 Beaucastel is the crown of the Perrin portfolio a wine that has rich fruit depth on the nose complexity on the palate the fruit is ripe the mid palate supple and velvet smooth the tannins fine and integrated. There is underlying freshness an attractive balance between the ripe black fruits and fresher red the finish has spicy black pepper. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2008 94 2014-26 Château de Beaucastel The nose is deep with lots of brooding black fruits all feeling ripe. Powerful flavours fill out the palate the ripeness of the fruit enriches but there is freshness a mix that gives lots of complexity. Ripe tannins help the suppleness and although there are fresh flavours the finish has richness and depth. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2009 95 2014-25 Château de Beaucastel www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 26
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Tasted at the Bibendum Tasting November 2010 The nose is rich packed with ripe fruit more black than red. The layers of flavour first bramble then red cherry gives lots of complexity a mix of sweetness and freshness. The mid palate is lush full of ripe powerful black fruit spiced up towards the back by hints of black pepper.. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2010 95 2014-25 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Bibendum Rhône Tasting November 2010 The nose is full of fruit sweet and ripe and this powerful mix of fruits enriches the palate. There are layers of flavours first red cherry then richer black cherry and blackberry all backed by peppery spices. The powerful mix of flavours packs out the back palate and gives depth to the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2011 95 2015-27 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2013 There is a hedgerow mix of fruits on the nose bramble and bilberry backed by red cherry. The palate is sweet fruited lots of rich flavours the suppleness helped by ripe tannins. There is a firmer feel towards the back with a lovely complex mix of flavours coming through on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2012 95 2016-28 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at Lincoln s Inn April 2015 Black fruits black cherry and bramble are backed by some red lots of mulberry and some red cherry. The tannins although firm are ripe there is mid structure yet lots of rich ripe fruit underneath. The layers of fruit give complexity and the finish is long and stylish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2013 95 2017-28 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Berry Bros tasting One Great George Street February 2015 The mainly black fruits are rich the nose deep the palate starts with power and richness. Lighter in the middle red fruits refresh and add to the complexity. The tannins give structure but are fine the black fruited power enriches the back palate and finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2014 95 2018-28 Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the Clarion tasting Middle Temple November 2015 Sweet and ripe the nose has depth the palate is rich sweet fruited fleshy and supple. Layers of flavour give complexity the ripe fruit fills the mid palate supported by fine tannins. Ripe fruit gives depth and fleshy richness on the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2015 95 2019-29 27 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Château de Beaucastel Tasted at the J &B Rhône Tasting November 2016 The nose is rich with a mix of black fruits the palate has power depth black cherry and plum. The tannins support but feel ripe the mid palate is supple and fleshy a rich mix of flavours. There is underling freshness some red fruits and bramble but it finishes with rich fruit ripe and fleshy. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Les Sinards 2010 93 2015-24 Famille Perrin Tasted at the Carlton Club February 2015 Tasted in Shefford December 2016 The family stamp is very apparent the nose rich ripe with depth of flavour the start of the palate lush the mid palate supple. Bramble and some mulberry help to balance the rich sweet fruit a lovely complex mix. Sweet and fleshy at the back a brooding depth yet the finish is fresher fine and long. The richness would marry well with duck but there is a freshness that suits lamb and pork. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Les Sinards 2012 93 2016-26 Famille Perrin The nose has a mix of flavours with black fruits tending to dominate the fresher red. The sweet mid palate has depth fleshy richness at the start with the sweetness tending to be over taken by tannic firmness that holds back the fruit and closes down the finish. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Hommage à Jacques Perrin 2004 95 2017-28 Château de Beaucastel Minty and fragrant the nose has a mix of red and black fruits. The start of the palate is fresh the mid palate rich with some sweet fruit and although towards the back it feels lighter red cherry and bramble leafy and nutty the finish has black fruited power. Château Pesquié Côtes du Ventoux White Wines Quintessence Blanc 2008 87 2010-12 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2010 It has a lot of citrus on the nose with some richer greengage behind and coming through on the palate. The citric freshness is very much in evidence on the finish. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 28
RHÔNE August 23, 2012 Côtes du Ventoux Cuvée Quintessence 2007 89 2009-13 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 The fruit feels ripe the nose full of sweet flavours and the palate has lots of rich black fruits. Although fresher towards the back the finish is sweet and rich with good depth of flavour. Côtes du Ventoux Cuvée Artemia 2007 89 2009-13 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 Rich ripe fruit fills out the nose and gives depth on the start of the palate. Black fruits appear to be dominant but behind there some red some fleshy strawberries. There is a nice mix of flavours on the finish. Côtes du Ventoux Cuvée les Terrasses 2007 87 2009-12 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 Fragrant red fruits give charm on both nose and palate. It is light fresh easy but rather lacking in complexity and fruit richness and depth. Côtes du Ventoux Cuvée les Terrasses 2008 87 2010-13 Tasted at O W Loeb March 2010 It is very light, quite fragrant but lacking depth of the fruit. The mid palate has some sweetness but the raspberry freshness takes over giving a firm feel to the finish. Côtes du Ventoux Cuvée les Terrasses 2012 88 2014-19 Tasted at the Loeb tasting Caledonian Club London February 2014 The nose is light with red fruited fragrances and the palate starts light with raspberry freshness. There are sweeter flavours in the middle still very red fruited but feeling ripe and giving more depth on the finish. Domaine Pesquier Gigondas Gigondas 2012 89 2016-22 Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting Caledonian Club London February 2014 The mix of fruits feels ripe the palate sweet with fleshy richness in the middle. It is firmer at the back the tannins still quite tight but there is the feel of more to show. Domaine de la Pigeade Beaumes de Venise Sweet Whites Wines Muscat de Beaumes de Venise 2007 92 2009-15 29 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
August 23, 2012 RHÔNE Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting March 2009 The nose although rich has fragrance and oriental perfumes. Caramelized peel, peaches and apricot enrich the palate the sweetness the fleshy richness balanced by tangerine and lemon the freshness bringing out spicy fragrances on the finish. Muscat de Beaumes de Venise 2008 88 2010-15 Tasted at the O W Loeb Tasting London September 2010 The nose is very perfumed with floral spicy fruit. There is flesh, a fat feel on the palate some nice peachy fruit balanced by a touch of underlying acidity and the attractive perfumed spices come through on the finish. Domaine de Pignan Châteauneuf-du-Pape Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012 92 2016-22 Tasted at the Vineyards Direct tasting Jesus Cambridge November 2015 Bright and fresh on the nose the red fruits are very much to the fore. The palate is sweeter fleshy with ripe black fruits fine tannins and mid suppleness. There is balance structure freshness at the back with black fruits giving depth and sweetness on the finish Derek Smedley MW www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 30