Rosehill Wine Cellars’ Post

The Art of Wine Enjoyment - Bordeaux Wine Glasses🍷 In the next installment in our stemware series we explore the world of Bordeaux wine glasses and how they can elevate your wine-drinking experience. Benefits of Bordeaux Wine Glasses Enhanced Aroma: Bordeaux glasses are designed with a larger bowl, allowing the wine to breathe and releasing its intricate aromas. This ensures you catch every nuance of your Bordeaux wine, from the fruity notes to the subtle hints of oak. Amplified Flavor: The shape of Bordeaux glasses directs the wine to the back of the mouth, emphasizing the rich and complex flavors. This design is especially beneficial for Bordeaux wines, known for their deep, bold taste. Aesthetic Appeal: Bordeaux glasses often have an elegant, elongated stem and a classic tulip-shaped bowl, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your wine experience. Proper Use: Hold the Stem: Always hold your Bordeaux glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine with the heat from your hands. Pour the Right Amount: Fill the glass no more than one-third to one-half full, allowing room for swirling and aeration. Swirl and Sniff: Gently swirl the wine in the glass to release its aromas, then take a moment to savor the bouquet before sipping. Types of Wines Recommended: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc. Malbec, Syrah, and aged red wines. Investing in quality Bordeaux wine glasses is a small step that can make a significant difference in your wine enjoyment. The right glassware can enhance the aromas, flavours, and overall experience of your favorite Bordeaux wines. (Featured glass available for purchase at: https://bit.ly/3ShpFFU Zalto Bordeaux Wine Glass)

Cheap & Chic 🍷 When anyone says Bordeaux wines are no longer in fashion I want to laugh. (You hear this a lot in France and among wine people, btw.) Why aren’t Bordeaux wines in fashion? Because they’re old school and traditional and aren’t as overpriced and impossible to find in the U.S. like so many Burgundies? I love a beautiful Pinot Noir from Burgundy. But, saying Bordeaux is out of fashion is like saying CHANEL is out of style. Some things are just classic, elegant, and always cool. This 2020 Château Prieuré Lichine is a perfect example of what I love about Bordeaux blends. It’s a stunning Margaux that I bought for just $39.97. (It’s currently $44.99 on Wine.com) It’s a Grand Cru Classé en 1855—which means it made the list of the 60 best Bordeaux wines for the 3rd Universal Exposition of Paris in 1855. (That’s some history for just $45! ) It has great dark fruit like blackberry and cassis, and an almost herby finish. It smells a little like pencil (this is common with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) and has really fabulous acidity and smooth but grainy tannins that will keep this wine going for years to come. It was wonderful with prosciutto and cheese. I look forward to having more of it with steak or a beef stew made with bay leaves and herbes de Provence…something wintery, warm, and delicious. Some things to know about Bordeaux blends: They are typically a combo of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, with some Petit Verdot and Malbec. Bordeaux has a Left Bank and a Right Bank. Right Bank wines are typically Merlot dominant blends. Left Bank wines are mostly Cabernet Sauvignon. If you ever forget that, remember: your left hand can curve to make a “C”. This wine is from Margaux. Margaux is on the Left Bank, so it’s mostly Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is 50% Cab, 45% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. If Margaux sounds familiar that’s because it’s pretty famous and is home to the legendary Château Margaux. And some people say Bordeaux isn’t fashionable!!!! #frenchwine #bordeaux #redwine #cabernetsauvignon

Here is a new insight article on Sommelier Business, BTN's magazine for on-trade professionals. "A Deep Dive Into Vintage Variation And Navigating Inconsistent Years". In this article, we explore vintage variation in wine, its causes, and how sommeliers can guide customers through these differences for an enhanced experience. As we know wine is a living, breathing entity that is heavily influenced by its environment, especially the weather. While a bottle of wine from a particular region and vineyard might bear the same label year after year, the taste, aroma, and overall experience it offers can vary significantly depending on the vintage. This phenomenon, known as vintage variation, is a testament to the intricate relationship between wine and nature. For sommeliers and wine enthusiasts, understanding vintage variation is crucial for making informed recommendations and offering customers a nuanced wine experience. This article delves into the concept of vintage variation, explores its causes, and provides insights on how sommeliers can effectively communicate these differences to customers while guiding them to the best choices for their palate and occasion. Read the article below.

Dom Pérignon Plénitude P2 2004: The colour is medium gold, with a fine perlage. On the nose citrusy notes of pink grapefruit, blood oranges, peaches, pastry cream, buttered toast. In the mouth elegant, very tasty, charming and succulent. The aftertaste is long. Dom Pérignon exclusively makes champagne with grapes from a single year. There are some vintages that show extra potential and can benefit from extra time to age and mature. That’s the idea behind Dom Pérignon’s Plénitudes series. The Plénitude concept has been years in development. After studying the natural course of ageing that vintage champagne seems to undertake, the winemaking team found that, rather than improving steadily and linearly (as is the case with many wines), Dom Pérignon develops and matures through three defined stages. The first release (P1) comes approximately 8 years after the harvest and is the style that most consumers are familiar with. The second stage (P2) takes roughly 15 years, during which the cuvée takes a profound leap to a new quality level, where it will plateau for many years in terms of improvement. Finally, the third Plénitude (P3) will see the champagne ageing another 20-30 years until it reaches its ultimate peak. The first plenitude is when the wine finds harmony. The second plenitude is about energy. The third plenitude is a stage in which maximum complexity is sought. Initially these mature vintages were made available under a limited release called “Oenothèque” but in 2014 were re-branded as “Plénitude”. While the 2004 vintage was released in 2013, its sister bottling, the Vintage 2004 Plénitude 2, was kept behind in the cellars to continue maturing on the lees for a full 17 years. Disgorgement was in September 2021. Plénitude P2 2004 is a blend of 62% Pinot Noir and 38% Chardonnay grapes. They all come from Grand & Premier Cru vineyards. For this bottle I paid 430 CHF online at millesima.ch

Vieux Château Certan is one of the oldest and most respected wine estates in the Pomerol appellation of Bordeaux, France. With a history dating back to the 16th century, it is renowned for producing high-quality red wines. The estate has been owned by the Thienpont family since 1924, with Alexandre Thienpont currently at the helm. Located on the prestigious Pomerol plateau, the vineyard spans approximately 14 hectares (35 acres). The soil is a mix of clay and gravel, ideal for growing Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard is planted with around 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. This unique terroir contributes to the distinct character and quality of the wines produced at Vieux Château Certan. The estate employs meticulous winemaking techniques to ensure the highest quality. Grapes are harvested by hand, allowing for careful selection of the best fruit. Fermentation occurs in a combination of stainless steel and concrete vats, using traditional methods. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with about 60% new oak used for each vintage. This careful aging process imparts complexity and depth to the wines. Vieux Château Certan is known for producing wines that are elegant, complex, and capable of aging gracefully. The grand vin, Vieux Château Certan, is the estate’s flagship wine. It typically exhibits rich fruit flavors, such as blackberries and plums, along with notes of truffles and spices. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth and balanced texture. In addition to the grand vin, the estate also produces a second wine, La Gravette de Certan, which is made from younger vines and offers a more approachable style. Vieux Château Certan is highly esteemed in the wine world, often compared to other top producers in Pomerol, such as Château Pétrus and Château Le Pin. The estate’s wines are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, commanding high prices, especially in exceptional vintages. The combination of a rich history, ideal terroir, and meticulous winemaking has solidified Vieux Château Certan’s reputation as one of Bordeaux’s premier wine estates. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/g7ueCMT6 Vieux Château Certan available now at Wine Kin! Vintage 2016 (RP 100): https://lnkd.in/gPqQEtCr PM me for any purchase or trade enquiries. Use my promo code JOE30OFF at checkout for $30 off $300 purchase. #VCC #Bordeaux #Pomerol #RP100 #FineWine #WineKin

Non-vintage Champagne—a blend of reserve wines and the current harvest—is often considered the entry-level wine for a Champagne house. But some producers are rethinking how a blend of vintages can tell a different story. With individual harvest years becoming more volatile and less predictable in a changing climate, winemakers are redefining luxury with the art of non-vintage blends. Ruinart, Champagne Piper-Heidsieck, Champagne Louis Roederer, Champagne Henriot, Champagne BILLECART-SALMON, KRUG Champagne My latest for Imbibe explores this trend: https://lnkd.in/eG5WHZpn

Elevate Your Dining Experience with Exquisite Grappa Pairings! #GrappaPairing #Sommelier #Spirits As a professional sommelier in a luxury 5-star hotel, I'm always in search of ways to elevate your dining experience, and today, I'd like to introduce you to a hidden gem in the world of spirits – Grappa. Grappa is a unique and potent Italian spirit. Its ABV typically ranges from 35% to 60%. The exact ABV can vary depending on the specific Grappa and its production process. This range allows for variability in the strength of different Grappas, with some on the lower end and others on the higher end. The Art of Grappa Production: The journey of Grappa begins in the picturesque vineyards of Italy. This exquisite spirit is a product of the craft of distillation, using the grape pomace left over from the winemaking process. The pomace, made up of grape skins, seeds, and stems, is carefully selected and processed to create this magnificent elixir. The distillation process often passed down through generations, is a testament to the artisanal craftsmanship involved in Grappa production. Discovering the Best Regions: When exploring the world of Grappa, it's essential to know that the best regions for its production are often found in the enchanting landscapes of Veneto, Trentino, and Friuli. These regions are renowned for their winemaking traditions, and the Grappa produced here is a true reflection of the rich terroir and expertise in distillation. Now that we've delved into the art of Grappa production and its finest regions let's explore how to incorporate this remarkable spirit into your high-standard dining setting: 1. Aperitif Perfection: Start your culinary journey with a delicate Grappa aperitif. Its strong, warming presence awakens the palate, preparing it for the delights to come. 2. Pairing with Appetizers: Pair Grappa with a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, or fresh oysters. The spirit's rich, fruity notes complement the savoury and salty flavours, creating a symphony on your taste buds. 3. Main Course Harmony: For a robust main course, a well-aged Grappa, with its nuanced oak and vanilla undertones, beautifully complements dishes like grilled lamb, truffle risotto, or wild mushroom steak. 4. Dessert Elegance: Cap off your meal with a dessert Grappa. Its sweetness and warmth are the perfect accompaniment to indulgent chocolate, creamy tiramisu, or citrus-infused delicacies. 5. The Art of Digestif: In the true Italian tradition, enjoy a Grappa digestif after your meal. Its potency aids in digestion, leaving you with a contented and warm feeling. 6. Educate and Engage: Consider organizing Grappa tastings for your esteemed guests, allowing them to explore the intricacies of this magnificent spirit. Incorporating Grappa into your luxury dining experience adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, enhancing the flavours and creating memorable moments. It's a remarkable choice for those seeking a unique and authentic experience.

As Bordeaux En-Primuer 2024 comes to an end, I will try and summarise my thoughts on the vintage. The growing season was challenging with severe mildew issues and a freakish rainstorm hitting mainly the upper left bank on the 20th of September. Those who dared (and could afford to risk it) left the Cabernet out and they have no doubt made the best wines. The domaines who rushed to get the grapes off have produced wines with not so pleasant green, underripe Cabernet. Having said that I definitely think it’s a Cabernet vintage. Most of the top wines have good amounts of Cabernet in them and a beautiful spine of good tannins and acidity with a bright freshness. In comparing ‘22 and ‘23, the 2022 had much more fruit density where the 2023’s are more open and have left space for you to walk in and search for the identity. I compare to a newly produced music album versus an open analog recording from the early 60’s. There can be no doubt that the vintage is no 2022 but overall it is good. We are hearing that wines will start to get released on Monday and it will be a fast and intense campaign, expected to have finished by the time of Vinexpo Hong Kong on the 27th of May. I can’t remember the last time we had wrapped up before June but I’m all for it. I’ve spoken to Chateau’s who have hinted at lowering the prices but also one who was confident that they would increase! Let’s make it clear, this is not a vintage to take any risks with pricing and given the issues facing Bordeaux and premium wine world wide it would be madness not to lower the prices. We will see on Monday! Some of my highlights of the tastings in no particular order: Chateau Haut Bailly Chateau Margaux Chateau Pichon-Longueville (Comtesse) Chateau Figeac Chateau Pontet Canet Chateau Cheval Blanc Chateau Belair-Monange Chateau Trotanoy Chateau Montrose Chateau La Lagune (QPR of the year?) Chateau Branaire-Ducru Domaine de Chevalier (Blanc)

En Primeur 🍷 📈 Investing in Bordeaux En Primeur offers early access to newly released vintages, providing a chance to procure wine directly from producers before broader market availability. This practice, common in esteemed wine regions like Bordeaux, presents several advantages, including access to rare wines at initial release prices, opportunities to secure allocations of highly sought-after vintages, and the assurance of provenance. When looking at wines from an investment point of view, we consider various factors including scoring, critics' reviews, past vintages, and branding Critics’ Reviews: Highly acclaimed wines endorsed by such critics often command premium prices. For example: • The 1989 Chateau Haut Brion Blanc, awarded a perfect score of 100 by Robert Parker, commands £2,000 per bottle • The 2005 Chateau Ausone, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, earning 100 points from The Wine Advocate, fetches £1,200 per bottle. Top Vintages: • Vintage: 1949, 1953, 1955, 1959, 1961 and 1982 • More Recent Vintages: 2005, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2018 and 2019 left bank Classification: The Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855 divides estates into First to Fifth Growth based on prestige and market value First Growth Wines (Premier Cru) represent the highest tier: 🥇 Château Haut-Brion Château Lafite Rothschild Château Latour Château Margaux Château Mouton Rothschild Second Growth Wines, often referred to as "super seconds," boast promising investment potential. A few to note: 🥈 Château Cos d’Estournel Château Ducru-Beaucaillou Château La Mission Château Montrose Château Léoville-Poyferré 5th Growth Wines, despite their accessible prices, frequently demonstrate remarkable investment potential. 🏅 Château Pontet-Canet Château Lynch-Bages Château Batailley Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste Château Lynch-Bages for example. In essence, Bordeaux En Primeur investments offer a diverse array of opportunities, enabling investors to capitalise on the allure and prestige of Bordeaux's finest offerings, whether it's the revered First Growth estates, the promising Second Growth producers, or the accessible yet formidable 5th Growth wines. Are you securing a case this campaign? ? ✅ #investing #assurance #quality #enprimeur #future

Stylish and elegant, this electric wine bottle opener kit makes it simple to uncork a bottle, so you can start enjoying your wine. Find it on SearchFindOrder Electric Wine Bottle Opener Kit Link to this product in the comments. #wine #food #travel #wellness #gadgets #innovation #design #realestate #restaurants