From: Roussilon, France

Varietals: 50% Syrah, 35% Grenache Noir, 15% Carignan

Taste: The 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges Côtes du Roussillon presents a deep ruby color, with a hint of garnet emerging at the rim. On the nose, it reveals an enchanting bouquet of ripe black cherries, blackberries, and plum, complemented by subtle notes of cracked black pepper, dried herbs, and a touch of smoked meat. As the wine opens up, undertones of licorice, tobacco, and dark chocolate begin to unfurl, adding complexity to the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-structured, boasting a beautiful balance between the rich dark fruit flavors and the well-integrated tannins. The acidity is vibrant, providing a refreshing lift and accentuating the flavors of black fruit, sweet spices, and a hint of minerality. The 2015 Cuvée Chevalière demonstrates a long and persistent finish, leaving behind lingering notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and earthy undertones.

Pairing: Given the wine's bold and complex flavor profile, it pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes that have a touch of spice or smokiness. Options include grilled or roasted meats, hearty stews, and dishes that feature robust sauces or a combination of sweet and savory elements.

Regional: In keeping with its origins, the 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges Côtes du Roussillon pairs exceptionally well with traditional southern French and Mediterranean cuisine. Consider dishes such as cassoulet, ratatouille, or slow-cooked lamb shanks with olives and tomatoes (check out the recipe inspired by this note below). The wine's rich fruit and spice components also complement the flavors of paella, tagines, or a Provençal-style beef daube.

Vegetarian: Vegetarian options that harmonize with the 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges Côtes du Roussillon include dishes that showcase hearty, earthy ingredients and bold flavors. For example, a mushroom and lentil stew, grilled portobello mushrooms with a balsamic glaze, or an eggplant and chickpea curry. For a lighter option, consider a beet and goat cheese salad with toasted walnuts and a citrus vinaigrette, which will highlight the wine's acidity and fruity undertones.

Instant Pot Pork Stew With Red Wine and Olives
By Melissa Clark

About. The Côtes du Roussillon wine region, nestled at the eastern edge of the Pyrenees Mountains in southern France, is famed for its fortified sweet wines. However, the region's dry wines, such as the 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges, are increasingly gaining recognition for their exceptional quality and unique character.

The Clos Saint Georges Estate: Located in the heart of the Roussillon plain, Clos Saint Georges is steeped in five generations of winemaking tradition. Since 1970, owners Dominique and Claude Orta have dedicated themselves to crafting high-quality wines that showcase the terroir's stony, siliceous-clay soils. The estate's commitment to environmental preservation has earned it the prestigious "High Environmental Value" (HVE – Level 3) certification, reflecting its adoption of sustainable and responsible cultivation practices.

The 2015 Cuvée Chevalière: The 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges Côtes du Roussillon is a blend of 50% Syrah, 35% Grenache Noir, and 15% Carignan. These classic Languedoc-Roussillon and southern Rhône valley grape varieties harmoniously combine to produce a rich, complex, and captivating wine. Aged for 36 months in tanks, this elegant wine is best savored slowly alongside meats, stuffed poultry, turkey breast, guinea fowl, veal rolls, game, and cheese.

A Nod to Tradition: While the Côtes du Roussillon appellation was initially created as a catch-all title for the region's dry red, white, and rosé wines, it has evolved to encompass a diverse range of wine styles. The 2015 Cuvée Chevalière du Clos St Georges is a testament to the region's ability to produce high-quality dry wines that are true to their terroir, while also embracing sustainable practices.