Last Week's Tasting Notes (6.15.18)

Côté Mas Rosé Aurore 1 Liter ($15.99)
Languedoc, France
From the producer:
"Jean-Claude Mas, independent winemaker, fourth generation grape grower, first generation winemaker and owner of Domaines Paul Mas, is a leader in fine winemaking in the Languedoc region of the South of France. Since taking the helm of the family winery in 2000, he has prioritized sourcing the highest quality grapes from twelve privately owned estates and premier growers in the Languedoc to make wines of authenticity and refinement. The result is a collection of magnificently charming wines that burst forward with the warmth and stunning beauty of the Languedoc. In 2012, Jean-Claude’s philosophy of “Luxe Rural” -- an appreciation of the simple pleasures of life, artfully rendered by nature – crystallized with the opening of the Côté Mas Restaurant. Côté Mas wines were first introduced at the restaurant and became so popular that they are now available for purchase worldwide.

Pale salmon color. Complex nose with cherry and strawberry notes evolving towards soft candied fruit. The palate is rich and smooth with ripe red fruits and a well-balanced acidity. Best served with light dishes, salads or on its own as an aperitif. This wine can be kept two to three years.

Grenache 50%, Cinsault 30%, Syrah 20%"

From me:
At $15.99 for a liter, this wine is an outstanding value. It's a perfect example of light, crisp, and refreshing rosé from the Languedoc region, and it is perfect for warm summer weather. The berry notes are not too overpowering, and the balancing acidity makes for a delicious wine that will pair well with the light fare of hot days.


Abbazia di Novacella Kerner ($17.99)
Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy
From the producer:
"The Abbazia di Novacella winery is among the oldest active wineries in the world. At its founding, Abbazia di Novacella was lavishly provided with farms and land, among which were also vineyards, by Reginbert of Säben. As early as in 1177, Pope Alexander III. confirmed the Monastery’s ownership of vineyards in the vicinity. Over the course of the centuries, the Abbey acquired a respectable ownership in vineyards by means of gifts, donations, purchases, and exchanges. To this very day, the Abbey is surrounded by terraced vineyards. They extend from the monastic complex, which is located at an altitude of 600 m (2,000 ft.), up the steep hills to an elevation of 900 m (2,950 ft.). Since the temporary dissolution of the Abbey at the beginning of the nineteenth century, not all of them have remained in the Abbey’s possession. But to this day, most of the local farmers deliver their grapes to the Monastery, where they are turned into wines with a strong character in the Abbazia winery.

100% Kerner from gravelly marine soils planted at 600-750m in elevation. Vinified in stainless steel tanks using indigenous yeasts, then aged 6 months in stainless steel tanks."

From me:
Kerner is a hybrid whose parents, Riesling and Schiava, created a frost-resistent grape that thrives in the colder climate of northern Italy. The wine from Kerner is both fruity and aromatic, but with distinct acidity and a hint of mild nuttiness. This particular Kerner is made by monks, who grow the grapes organically.