Grenache

Patrick Schmitt MW Reveals What Makes a Truly Great Rosé

Patrick Schmitt MW Reveals What Makes a Truly Great Rosé

⏱ 2 min read The Short Version Stop chasing "skinny" rosé; true greatness lies in structural integrity rather than pale aesthetics. Look for wines that balance juicy fruit with creamy viscosity—achieved through lees contact or oak—to find that rare equilibrium between refreshing acidity and substantive body. In This Article Texture over transparencyBeyond the summer chill Finding the perfect rosé requires looking past visual aesthetics to focus on structural integrity. While many drinkers gravitate toward the pale, bone-dry styles of Provence, the category is undergoing a massive expansion in texture and complexity. According to Master of Wine Patrick Schmitt, the most…
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Rosé Isn’t Just for the Pool: A Masterclass in Diversity and Depth

Rosé Isn’t Just for the Pool: A Masterclass in Diversity and Depth

Pour yourself a cup for this one: Rosé isn’t just a summer sipper—it’s a category in full bloom. At Wine Paris, a masterclass on rosé revealed how this pink-hued wine defies stereotypes, showcasing a spectrum of styles, terroirs, and techniques that elevate it far beyond beachside frivolity. Ben Bernheim’s session wasn’t about debunking myths—it was about celebrating the category’s evolving identity. When he challenged the audience to define rosé, the lack of consensus underscored a simple truth: this wine is as complex as it is colorful. The masterclass peeled back layers of the rosé family, starting with Domaine Royal de…
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The Enduring Legacy of Rhône Winemaking: A Testament to Tradition and Innovation

The Enduring Legacy of Rhône Winemaking: A Testament to Tradition and Innovation

The world of Rhône wines is a tapestry woven from centuries of tradition, innovation, and the indelible mark of visionaries like Reynaud. As the industry grapples with the legacy of pioneers, the region’s wines continue to captivate with their complexity, terroir-driven character, and the stories etched into every bottle. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the mineral-rich soils of Hermitage, the Rhône’s ability to produce wines that age gracefully and express their origins is a testament to its enduring allure. Recent vintages, such as the 2024 en primeur release, have sparked renewed conversations about the balance between tradition and…
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Vieille Julienne’s Réservé: Grenache in Excelsis

Vieille Julienne’s Réservé: Grenache in Excelsis

Time to spill: Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a high-stakes gamble, but Vieille Julienne’s Réservé dares to redefine the stakes. Jean-Paul Daumen’s flagship wine isn’t just concentrated—it’s a masterclass in balancing power and precision. At its core, this Grenache-driven cuvée thrives on tension, where bold tannins meet floral elegance, and ripe fruit clings to a mineral backbone. It’s a wine that demands attention, yet rewards with a clarity that feels almost paradoxical for its intensity. The 2015 vintage is a textbook example of this duality. Deep ruby hues swirl with black cherry and smoked plum, while a whisper of violets cuts through the…
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