Vivian Liang | November 2, 2021
Guigal - Bénetière - Chave - Clape - Allemand - Paris
After the late-arrival typhoons and black rain, Hong Kong finally cools down and steps into the autumn season. My appetite for wine has shifted with the season to richer and spicier reds, especially those made from Syrah. We have been expanding our selection of wines from the Rhône Valley, and I have handpicked some of my favorite wines for you to enjoy this season.
Guigal is the legendary name that has made signature Syrah, commonly known as the "La La's" in Côte Rôtie. La Mouline is more delicate, with 11% Viognier in the blend for 2008. It combines floral notes with the richness and spiciness of Syrah. Whereas La Turque, on the other hand, is all about power and subtleness, with only 7% Viognier in the blend for 2013. It displays floral fragrance, dark fruits, and smoked meat character.
Located in Côte Rôtie, Domaine Bénetière has attracted a cult following. Modest in size, the limited quantities produced are beautifully bright, vibrant, and pure. This wine needs proper time to air (at least one hour) to reveal all its characteristics. 2015 is energetic, showing intriguing spices and layers of fruits. Perfect with the in-season lamb stew!
The legendary Domaine Jean-Louis Chave is the benchmark in Hermitage. This wine is known for its long-lasting finish, incredible finesse, and powerful backbone. However, I often find them quite approachable and charming, even at a young age. They showcase pure black fruits, spiciness, and refreshing herbaceousness. Extremely versatile with Asian food, I enjoy it paired with stir-fried meat dishes.
Domaine Clape is a true pioneer in the Cornas appellation, being one of the first to bottle his wines, instead of going through the traditional négociant system. Some of his vines are up to 100 years old, from which most of the juice goes into the Cornas itself. Wines are whole cluster fermented and aged in large oak foudres. Deep, rustic yet refined, showing charming floral and fruity aromas. Perfect to pair with hearty meat dishes.
Thierry Allemand's Cornas has seen a passionate following over the years. This terraced vineyard is set on steep slopes and is organically farmed. His wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered with a low dose of sulfur. Chaillot is a classic expression of northern Rhône Syrah: black fruits, light meaty notes, aromatic black pepper, and a rich palate.
Domaine Vincent Paris is composed of family inherited vines, including the famous south-facing plot of La Geynale, which came from his uncle, Robert Michel. This steep granite site makes the top cuvée wild and expressive, showcasing layers of mixed black and red fruits, black pepper aromas, and herbal tones. It's chewy on the palate with a long finish. Superb value and great with a steak!
I hope you enjoy my selection, and please do get in touch should you need more insight.
