2009 Château-Fortia Châteauneuf-Du-Pape $33.98

Don’t be intimidated by the name, it’s actually fun to say once you get the hang of it, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape pronounced (cha-to-nuf-dew-pop!). Châteauneuf-Du-Pape is a wine growing region in the Rhone Valley of France.

Well known for it’s jammy, juicy, and fruit forward wines. What makes this region unique and fun to explore are the varying differences between producers and their styles. This exists because producers from this region are allowed to use up to a dizzying 13 different wine varietals! There’s an art to blending wine and this region is a perfect place to explore artisanal wine blending. This may seem overwhelming or hard to remember but us sommeliers or wine nerds have an acronym to memorize the main 3 varietals used. GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre (moo-ve-dra). It’s a cool little fact you can share with your friends and you don’t have to tell anyone where you picked it up, I won’t tell.

Tasting Notes:
Ripe, jammy fruit such as currents and blackberry, pleasant earthiness, reminiscent of warm moist soil. Soft and approachable tannin’s, long lasting acidity, definite role playing between power and finesse. Very long finish with lots of mouth watering acidity on the finish, which will ensure this, is an age worthy wine. But it’s perfect to enjoy on release.

Food Pairings:
If you’re looking for a red to go with summer food you’ve found your match. This will go great with grilled meats, especially bar-b-q (wet or dry rubs) and soft enough to match well with all the fixings.  I think this would be a fun pairing with the bold rich flavors of Latin fare which is done so well here in California. Carnitas, carne asada, menudo, posole or braised oxtail enjoy!

http://www.chateau-fortia.com/index_e.asp

Terah Bajjalieh
Certified Sommelier
@terahbajjalieh