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Order by June 4, 2012
OFFERING 2 1 0 The wines of the Côte d’Or of Burgundy, the Loire Valley, the Languedoc-Roussillon, and Provence
OPIMIAN MAKES ORDERING EASY WHAT TO ORDER? Would you prefer a wine you can drink now or lay down? Which styles of wine do you most enjoy – light, medium or fullbodied – oak or no oak? Familiarize yourself with the icons Opimian provides below and consult the wine descriptions to guide you in your wine selection. Interested in what other members enjoy? The Members’ Choice indicates member favourites – they know this wine, the supplier and they regularly order it. HOW TO ORDER Once you have made your selection, you can place your order in one of four ways: • Order online. Sign in to opim.ca. Show Details on the left menu brings you to the cellar offering. Click the shopping basket to add a case to your order. Submit Order when you have completed your selection and provide your payment information. A confirmation will be sent to you via email. • Email at opim@opim.ca with your selection. • Call in your order at 1-800-361-9421. • Mail or Fax in your order - Complete the order form provided with all the information requested. Mail in the envelope provided or fax to 514-481-9699. CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR CELLAR OFFERING 210 • Methods of Payment: Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque made out to Opimian. • Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including G.S.T & H.S.T #R 105 233 217 • Q.S.T #1000640430 • A valid 2012 membership card is required to order and pick up. • Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum or maximum required. • The last day to order from this Cellar Offering is June 4, 2012. REDEEM YOUR COUPON Redeem your coupon by choosing one of the following two rewards from this Cellar Offering: 1. Order a case of wine & choose your free case from the coupon wine selection shown on the back cover. OR 2. Order two cases of wine & receive $75 off your order If redeeming online, insert your coupon number (found on the front of the coupon) when prompted. See coupon for full details.
About the cover: The Mediterranean Languedoc region of southern France is world-renowned for its wine diversity. Implanted for centuries, vines have found the perfect climatic conditions to grow. Located in the indigenous “garrigue” close to the sea, the vineyards can express all of their potential. We invite you to discover the authentic and juicy flavours resulting from perfect harmony between human and “terroir” conditions.
Restrictions: A 2nd case of wine must be ordered for every coupon redeemed. Coupons are non-transferable, may not be exchanged for cash and cannot be combined with the Opimian Select or Founders’ Choice programs. WINE DELIVERY It takes time! The wines on this Cellar Offering are not yet in Canada. When the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution center, you will receive a Pick Up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and location for pick up. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca. The expected arrival at a Canadian Port is End of September, 2012. Arrival dates at liquor boards depend on their distances from port of entry. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, and processing time required by each liquor board. LET US HELP YOU! If you have any questions about what or how to order, contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or opim@opim.ca
Eric Roure Winemaker, LGI Wines
LEGEND Members’ Choice
White
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Drink this year
Red
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
Rosé
Wine meant for laying down
Opimian Suggests
Medium concentration
Light in body
Heavy oak
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cases available
Extremely limited quantities
Very limited quantities
Limited quantities
Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Appeared in the C203 Select Cases (2011 Season)
To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.
Sparkling Great concentration
Medal Winner
Sweetness scale 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10
gms/litre 0-3 4-6 7 - 12 13 - 20 21 - 34 35 - 50 51 - 74 75 - 100 101 - 139 140 - 179 180 >
Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace, dry White Port Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
CELLAR OFFERING 210 The wines of the Côte d’Or of Burgundy, the Loire Valley, the Languedoc-Roussillon, and Provence
Opimian’s Wine Consultant Jane Masters MW is a graduate of Bordeaux’s famous Institut d’Oenologie and was elected to the Institute of Masters of Wine in 1997. Fluent in French and English, Jane is currently a member of the Council of the Institute of Masters of Wine, regularly speaks at industry seminars and is a Panel Chair for the International Wine Challenge.
France’s wine history stretches back thousands of years and is intricately linked with its culture and the way of life. The French may be consuming less, but they are demanding better quality wines and fortunately there are new generations of winemakers passionate about their land, their heritage and making quality wines. In this cellar offering we focus on Burgundy with Jérôme Billard based at La Rochepot in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune with some of the best terroir in the region. The Loire Valley is often overlooked, but produces stunning wines. 2011 was not an easy year here. The cold, wet summer led to disease pressure requiring severe selection in the vineyard, but growers such as Domaine Gibault have produced wines with good expression of fruit and minerality. The southern Languedoc-Roussillon region is one of the area’s most hard hit by the uprooting of vineyards; its acreage has been reduced by over a fifth in the last decade. This was the land of cooperatives, producing large quantities of inexpensive wine with many of the grapes grown on the low-lying flat alluvial plain. But there is potential here, lots of sunshine and blue skies with the best wines grown on the foothills of the Cévennes Mountains. Finally, we return to Château Vignelaure in Provence where we have put together a special case with more mature vintages that reflect the great potential of this estate.
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1. In the Ampelidae cellar there is strict control of the temperature, management of oxidation and the administration of sulphites. 2. Thierry Coulon tastes fermented juice with Grégoire Marin vineyard manager and winemaker at Domaine Peirière and Olivier Mandeville Peirière, owner and winemaker. 3. In the Languedoc region grapes reaching ripeness are so delicious that even the donkeys enjoy them.
4. Victoria welcomes you to stay in a winemaker’s cottage at Château Canet, tour the vineyards and enjoy a tasting in the cellar. 5. In the Billard winery, the application of the wine labels and capsules is automatized along with the sealing of the cartons. 6. This cellar is home to a collection of Château Vignelaure’s Grand Vin starting with the first vintage, 1970.
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The Côte d’Or of Burgundy
Domaine Billard Père et Fils else in the world can produce Pinot Noir like Burgundy. However, Burgundy La Rochepot Nowhere is probably one of the most difficult viticultural areas to get to grips with, consisting of
tiny plots divided and subdivided over the years. In addition, Pinot Noir is one of the most capricious grape varieties sensitive to climate, soil, and pruning and training. It is in Burgundy where knowing the grower is more important than any other region. Jérôme Billard is only 41 years old, but has been established on his family’s domaine since 1993. He has grown it from its base in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune to include other appellations and now has approximately 12.5ha of vineyards in different appellations in the Côte de Beaune.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
The Côte d’or Domaine Billard Père et Fils >>
6656
Bourgogne Aligoté, AOC, 2011 $15.67
6657
6 BTLS/750 ML
$94.00
Aligoté has been cultivated in the region for centuries and was once more widespread than Chardonnay. If not handled properly it can produce fairly neutral, insipid wine. Domaine Billard’s Aligoté is pale yellow in colour with lovely white fruits, pears, banana and honey on the nose, a mineral backbone and a lemon and tangerine citrus finish. The grapes were picked in late September, fermented in stainless steel tanks by natural indigenous yeast and bottled early to maximize fruit. [00] M8 D9
Grape Variety Aligoté
Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune Blanc, AOC, La Justice, 2011
The Billard family has been in the Hautes-Côtes for five generations
$17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
The Hautes-Côtes de Beaune sits above and behind the main slope of the Côte de Beaune and La Rochepot where Domaine Billard is based in one of the best communes. La Justice is the name of the “lieu-dit” or precise location of the vineyard plot which sits at 350M and overlooks the Saint-Aubin appellation. These are some of the best soils of the Hautes-Côtes and Jérôme has 3ha of Chardonnay on limestone soils. The juice was fermented in oak barrels from Vosges and Allier forests, 10% new, and subsequently matured a further 10 months giving it nice vanilla spice which complements the white fruits and banana flavours. [00] M7 D8
6658
Saint-Romain, AOC, La Combe Bazin, 2011 $22.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$133.00
Since taking over responsibility for the family domaine in 1993 Jérôme has been expanding beyond the HautesCôtes de Beaune. The vineyards of Saint-Romain lie in a side valley off the main Côte d’Or escarpment. At La Combe Bazin Jérôme has 1.35ha of Chardonnay planted on marl clay soils. The fruit was picked and fermented in Allier oak barrels, 25% new, and aged on lees for 12 months. The intensely toasty characteristic combines with ripe white fruits. It is structured with a succulent mid-palate, good concentration and a long apple and pear ending. [00] M6 D6
6659
Burgundy’s other white grape variety
Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, AOC, Vignes Moingeon, 2011 $25.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$154.00
The Premier Cru vineyard Vignes Moingeon lies north east of the village of Saint-Aubin. Here Jérôme cultivates 0.75ha of Chardonnay on limestone marl soils at 250M. Over the years he has a regular small team of pickers from the region who have become friends. The grapes were hand-harvested on September 5th into small 25kg boxes. The wine was fermented in Allier and Tronçais oak barrels, 25% new and subsequently aged for 10 months. Attractive vanilla and apple fruits on the nose lead to ripe white fruits flavours with a mineral backbone and fine finish. Perfectly balanced, it will mature producing more nutty flavours. [00] M6 D6
The Côte d’or Domaine Billard Père et Fils >>
Aroma
Pears, banana, honey
Taste
White fruits, lemon and tangerine finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Best enjoyed young and fresh
Ideal with
Parsley ham terrine
Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Vanilla, spice
Taste
Cooked white fruits, vanilla, banana
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Delicious now, it will mature over two to three years
Ideal with
Pavé de Saumon
Jérôme slowly, but surely expands his vineyards Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Toasty, ripe white fruits, matchstick
Taste
Concentrated, long finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will evolve over three to five years
Ideal with
Blanquette de Veau, sea bass
Perfect balance between fruit and oak Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Buttery with apples and vanilla
Taste
Ripe white fruits, mineral backbone, long finish
Serve
8 - 10° C
Evolution
Time in the cellar will reward, ready to drink two up to five years
Ideal with
Scallops with mussels and shrimps in cream sauce
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6660
Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune Rouge, AOC, 2011 $17.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
In a cooler vintage such as 2011, the skill of the grower in the vineyard is of utmost importance. Leaf plucking to expose fruit to the sun allows air to circulate to eliminate rot and permits the grapes to fully ripen. 5ha of Pinot Noir are planted on clay alluvium soils. The grapes were picked and destemmed. After fermentation the wine was aged in Allier and Vosges oak barrels for 10 months, 10% new. Herbal leafy aromas introduce juicy fruit flavours with firm tannin and bitter cherry on the finish. M7 D7
6661
6 BTLS/750 ML
$123.00
The majority of what is planted in the Saint-Romain appellation is Chardonnay, but Jérôme has 1.46ha of Pinot Noir planted on the La Perrière vineyard on limestone marl soils. Bright ruby in colour, the wine is currently quite subdued with floral violets and herbal aromas. Elegant in style it is quite light in weight with Pinot Noir fruit showing more on the palate with a long finish. The wine was aged 10 months in Vosges oak barrels, 20% new. M7 D8
Auxey-Duresses, AOC, 2011 $21.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$128.00
The village of Auxey-Duresses sits in the same side valley off the main Côte d’Or that leads up to the village of SaintRomain. Less well-known than neighbouring Meursault and Volnay, its wines were likely blended with and sold as these prior to receiving its own appellation. It has the potential to produce noteworthy reds and is a fine source of quality wines offering good value. Domaine Billard has 1.25ha of Pinot Noir on calcareous clay soils. The 2011 is brimming with red cherries and good Pinot qualities on the palate making it delicious for early drinking while having the potential to develop nicely. It was matured for 10 months in Vosges oak, 20% new. M7 D8
6663
Beaune, AOC, Les Bons Feuvres, 2011 $22.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$136.00
Jérôme has a tiny parcel of 0.3ha in Les Bons Feuvres producing a total of only 120 cases per year. The soils are silty, rich in minerals and iron content. Like all the wines he makes, it was fermented by natural yeast in order to fully express its terroir, a fact that Jérôme really believes is important when working with a single grape variety. After fermentation, with regular pigeage by foot, the wine was matured for one year in Tronçais oak barrels, 20% new. M6 D7
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Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Herbal leafy nose
Taste
Juicy fruits, bitter cherry
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Drink over three years
Ideal with
Beef stew
Saint-Romain, AOC, La Perrière, 2011 $20.50
6662
Work in the field pays dividends
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Elegant Pinot Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Floral, violets and herbs
Taste
Red fruits, long finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Already drinking nicely, it will hold three years
Ideal with
Entrecôte aux morilles
Lesser known appellation offers good value Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Red cherries
Taste
Soft with medium body, fine finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Delicious now, enjoy over three years
Ideal with
Venison and pork brioche
Tiny production, full expression of terroir Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Red cherry, menthol
Taste
Structured with concentration and depth
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Its best will emerge in two to five years
Ideal with
Roasted grouse, Brie de Meaux
The Côte d’or Domaine Billard Père et Fils >>
6664
Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, AOC, Les Castets, 2011 $24.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$144.00
0.32ha of Pinot Noir are planted in the Premier Cru Les Castets on white marl and limestone soils on a gentle incline achieving perfect ripeness and tannins. This is a powerful, muscular wine with great depth, a testimony to the terroir. With good balance and cherry menthol flavours, it was matured for 10 months in Vosges and Tronçais oak barrels, 25% new. M5 D6
6665
Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Cherry, menthol, spice
Taste
Muscular, powerful wine
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It has the potential to develop over seven to eight years
Ideal with
Civet of hare with garlic, Aisy Cendré
Beaune 1er Cru, AOC, Les Chouacheux, 2011 $31.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$186.00
This tiny plot of 50 ares in the Premier Cru Les Chouacheux is the latest addition to Jérôme’s vineyard holdings. Purchased in 2010 from a retiring vine-grower, it is planted with 60 year old vines on brown clay limestone and alluvial soils. The grapes were harvested by hand on August 29th perfectly ripe and under ideal conditions. Very closed when it was tasted, it needs time and clearly has the structure and depth to mature well. It was aged in Vosges and Allier barrels for 10 months, 25% new. M5 D6
6666
Powerful Premier Cru
60 year old Pinot vines Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Closed, needs some time
Taste
Structure, firm palate, nice fruit, long finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Needs time to soften, two to eight years
Ideal with
Roast loin of boar with juniper berries
Pommard, AOC, Les Tavannes, 2011 $34.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$206.00
When compared to neighbouring Volnay, Pommard has a reputation for sturdy rather than elegant wines attributed to a change in soil. But, the Domaine Billard Pommard Les Tavannes is sheer elegance with fine silky tannins and a long floral fruit finish. Twenty-two ares in Tavannes share the same alluvial chalky marl soil type as some of the Premier Crus. The wine was aged 10 months in Allier oak barrels, 25% new. M6 D7
Elisabeth and Jérôme uncork a few bottles of the Domaine’s wines, a welcomed reward after a day of harvesting.
The Côte d’or Domaine Billard Père et Fils
Fine, elegant Pommard Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Herbal fruits
Taste
Soft, elegant, fine tannins, long floral finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will open up over two to five years
Ideal with
Charolais steak with tomatoes and onions, Langres
To prevent oxidation, the wine press is lined with a mat to stop the grapes from bunching up, resulting in the preservation of aromatic purity.
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The Loire Valley Danielle and Pascal Gibault Les Martinières, Noyers-sur-Cher
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Following studies at the viticultural college of Briacé, Jérémie Huchet took over from his father Yves in 2001 and has already earned quite a reputation for the quality of his wines. Château de la Bretesche is a recent acquisition.
Established in 1998 by Pascal Gibault and his wife Danielle, Danielle de l’Ansée is a small négociant based in Touraine in the Loire. Originally founded to distribute Pascal’s own Domaine Gibault wines, they have subsequently expanded to other areas across the Loire working with small growers to offer a range which reflects the diversity of style and grape variety that this often overlooked region has to offer. The majority of wines produced in the Loire region are white, but it also produces quality red wines based on Cabernet Franc and Gamay, and super dessert wines from the Chenin Blanc grape variety.
THE LOIRE VALLEY Danielle and Pascal Gibault >>
Gibault Sauvignon Blanc, AOC Touraine, 6667 Domaine 2011 $15.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$91.00
The Domaine Gibault Sauvignon Blanc was recently awarded a gold medal at the Concours Général in Paris. It provides good varietal expression with intense gooseberry fruit and fresh green apple flavours. Domaine Gibault has 32ha of vines with essentially two soil types. Sauvignon Blanc is the main variety on the domaine with 26ha planted sandy soils over a chalk base. The wine was slowly fermented at low temperature over three to four weeks and was subsequently aged on fine lees. [00] M8 D9
6668 Domaine Gibault Evasion, AOC Touraine, 2010 $17.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$103.00
With nice honeyed aromas and spicy notes, acacia and cooked fruit flavours, the wine has matured nicely. The grapes were selected from the plot known as “Les Faiteaux” with southern exposure. After some skin contact the wine was fermented at low temperature and aged on lees with regular stirring to add complexity and weight. [01] M8 D9
6669 Domaine Gibault Emotion, AOC Touraine, 2011 $14.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$89.00
This wine is produced from a blend of 50% Côt, otherwise known as Malbec, and 50% Cabernet Franc. The grapes were grown on 1.5ha of chalky clay soils containing flint with a southern exposure perfectly adapted to these two grape varieties rather than the more common Gamay. Despite a relatively cool summer, the wine has ripe mellow fruit and is intensely coloured. Black liquorice and blackberry flavours come through on the plate with balanced acidity. M7 D8
6670
Château de la Bretesche, AOC Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, Sur Lie, 2011, Jérémie Huchet, Vigneron $14.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$86.00
Château de la Bretesche is a vineyard extending over 10.5ha on hills overlooking the south bank of the Sèvre. The coat of arms on the label is linked to Louis Jausseaume, a member of Louis XIV’s life-guards raised to marquis in the 17th century. Located at the extreme western end of the Loire Valley with strong influence from the nearby Atlantic, Muscadet makes ideal wines to pair with the local seafood. Produced from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, Jérémie Huchet tends to these vines planted on gneiss soils. The 2011 has quite a smoky, flinty component combined with lemon citrus and firm acidity. [00] M8 D9
THE LOIRE VALLEY Danielle and Pascal Gibault >>
A deserved Gold Medal winner Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Gooseberry, floral
Taste
Green apples, length on the finish
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Perfect for immediate drinking
Ideal with
Pan-seared scallops with herb-butter pan sauce
A richer, fatter style of Sauvignon Blanc Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Honey, spice
Taste
Cooked white fruits, acacia
Serve
8 - 10° C
Evolution
No need to wait
Ideal with
Grilled trout with lemon-tarragon bean salad
Concentrated ripe fruit Grape Variety Côt, Cabernet Franc Aroma
Mellow forest fruits
Taste
Liquorice, blackberries
Serve
16 - 18° C
Evolution
At its finest over the next three years
Ideal with
Pork rillettes
Gneiss soils provide the flintiness Grape Variety Melon de Bourgogne Aroma
Smoky, lemon
Taste
Citrus, mineral, good acidity
Serve
10 - 12° C
Evolution
Absolutely ready to be enjoyed
Ideal with
Barbequed oysters with chipotle lime butter
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du Pont de Livier, AOC Coteaux du Layon, 6671 Domaine 2011, EARL Flore and Emmanuel Rialland $16.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$101.00
The Loire Valley produces world class sweet dessert wines. Coteaux du Layon is known for its longevity and perfect acid balance. Produced exclusively from the Chenin Blanc grape, the appellation lays on the banks of the Layon River a tributary of the Loire. Facing south-south-west the vines on carboniferous soils have full exposure to the sun and the drying effects of the winds blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. Noble rot develops on the grapes which are picked by hand in three successive times between the start of October and the end of November. [07] M6 D7
6672
Jean-Paul Mollet, Pouilly Fumé, AOC, 2011, SCEV des Renardières $20.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$122.00
The vineyards of Jean-Paul Mollet lie on the best hillsides of Tracy-sur-Loire within the Pouilly Fumé appellation. The 35 to 40 year old Sauvignon Blanc vines are planted on clay soils with southwest exposure. The grapes were hand-picked in mid-October and the wines made by JeanPaul’s son, Florian. The juice was fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperature producing a wine with characteristic flinty, smoky aromas combined with green fruit. Quite broad in structure it ends long with medium acidity. [00] M7 D8
6673
Florian Mollet, Sancerre Blanc, AOC, 2011, EARL Le Clos du Roc $21.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$126.00
Florian’s own vineyards are close by in Sancerre. The two appellations are separated by the Loire River on the hillsides around Saint-Satur, Ménétréol and Thauvenay, and indeed they overlook the river itself with a south-west orientation. Currently more restrained in style than the Pouilly Fumé, it has lovely floral and limey fruits on the nose and a more mineral style on the palate with depth of flavour and length. [00] M8 D9
St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, AOC, 2011, Olivier 6674 Olivier earl $15.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$95.00
Patrick Oliver runs his 38ha estate with his wife Agnes. The couple apply the principles of “la lutte raisonnée” in the vineyards using minimal fungicides and chemical sprays. His Cabernet Franc grapes for this cuvée are cultivated on a hillside with sand and gravel soils and are protected from the north by a forest. Quite rustic in flavour with leafy earthy notes and hazelnut undertones, the forest fruits on the palate are complemented with firm tannin. M7 D8
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Chenin Blanc produces outstanding dessert wines on the banks of Layon Grape Variety Chenin Blanc Aroma
Honey, acacia
Taste
Fruit and honey, marmalade finish, great balance
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Best enjoyed over five years
Ideal with
Thai cuisine, apricot charlotte, Bleu d’Auvergne
Pouilly Fumé not to be confused with Pouilly Fuissé in Burgundy! Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Green fruits, flinty, smoky
Taste
Medium weight, long finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Best enjoyed while fresh, full development will come over two years
Ideal with
Hot Chavignol goat cheese salad
Same grape as the Pouilly Fumé, but separated by the river Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Floral, lime
Taste
Mineral, flinty, good depth
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will present its best over two years
Ideal with
Baked leek and parmesan tart
Flavour of the earth Grape Variety Cabernet Franc Aroma
Herbal, earthy notes
Taste
Firm rustic tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Interesting flavours now, it will mellow within three years
Ideal with
Cassoulet
THE LOIRE VALLEY Danielle and Pascal Gibault >>
Charles Pain, Cuvée Prestige, AOC Chinon, 6675 Domaine 2011 $16.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$98.00
Chinon is reputed to make some of the Loire’s best red wines from the Cabernet Franc grape where it is known as the Breton. Domaine Charles Pain has a total of 40ha split over the most eastern communes of the appellation and planted with various varieties. The Cabernet Franc vines that are used for the Cuvée Prestige are on gravel terraces on the right bank of the Vienne River. Deep and bright in colour, it has floral notes of violet. On the palate it is concentrated with firm, slightly chewy tannins on the finish. After picking the grapes macerated for an extended period. The finished wine has the potential to age for a number of years. M6 D7
6676
Pinot Noir, Marigny-Neuf, 2010, SARL Ampelidae $18.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$110.00
Ampelidae, based in Marigny-Brizay in the Vienne department, was founded by Frédéric Brochet in the 1990s. A scientist by training, a vigneron and philosopher at heart, Frédéric combines all these things to produce a range of wines and styles. Starting from nothing he now vinifies over 115ha all of which are organically farmed, quite a challenge in this cool, relatively wet region. The MarignyNeuf Pinot Noir was produced from grapes grown on a mixture of different soils. After hand-picking and sorting, the grapes were destemmed and put into open tanks for a cold maceration lasting four days. After fermentation and pressing the wine was aged for six months in oak on fine lees. M7 D8
THE LOIRE VALLEY Danielle and Pascal Gibault
Cabernet Franc, the Loire’s quality red grape Grape Variety Cabernet Franc Aroma
Floral, violets
Taste
Firm chewy tannins
Serve
16° C
Evolution
It will continue to develop over four years
Ideal with
Pâté de lapin, boudin noir
Organically grown, perfectly made Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Herbal, strawberry leaf
Taste
Red fruits, fine structure of Pinot Noir
Serve
18° C
Evolution
More complex notes to come in two to three years
Ideal with
Roast pork filet mignon in wine sauce and fresh mushrooms
Left: The farm was established in 1959 by Bernard Olivier and concentrated on activities other than vine-growing. Today the Olivier EARL estate winery totals 38ha. Right: Yves Huchet in the cellars of Domaine de la Chauvinière where Jérémie started his journey as a winemaker, under the tutelage of his greatest teacher, his father.
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Languedoc-Roussillon Paul Sapin SA This section of the Sauvignon Blanc vineyard at Domaine Blomac borders the Aude River.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
For many years the Languedoc was dominated by large cooperatives and considered good only for producing large volumes of pretty average wine from the low lying flat plain. As restructuring of the French vineyards has taken hold with a focus on producing less, but better quality wines the area has lost over a fifth of its total acreage. Thierry Coulon has had close links with the Languedoc for years and when the opportunity of investing in Château Blomac in the Minervois presented itself he went for it. As well as Château Blomac, Thierry works closely with Olivier Mandeville Peirière at nearby Domaine Peirière and partners in Gascogny.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN SA >>
6677 Les Ombrages, IGP Côtes de Gascogne, 2011 $8.92
12 BTLS/750 ML
$107.00
The Gers remains a rural part of France, known for its way of life and its gastronomy; here Duck is king be it Magret or Foie Gras in all its guises. Les Ombrages Côtes de Gascogne is sourced from one of the best producers in the region and is a blend of 80% Colombard with 20% Ugni Blanc. With intense gooseberry fruit, it has characteristic tangy acidity offset with just a touch of residual sweetness. [02] M9 D9
6678 Domaine Peirière Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $9.75
12 BTLS/750 ML
$117.00
Domaine Peirière has been in Olivier Mandeville’s family for four centuries! Replanted approximately 30 years ago, Olivier has developed quite a name for himself especially for his white wines. The drop in temperature between day and night is perfect for the development of varietal flavours in Chardonnay combining white fruit with minerality and great balance. [01] M8 D9
Peirière Sauvignon Blanc, IGP Pays d’Oc, 6679 Domaine 2011 $9.75
12 BTLS/750 ML
$117.00
There are not many people in the Languedoc who succeed at producing good Sauvignon Blanc, but Olivier Mandeville is among the best of them. The cool evening temperatures and harvesting at night are just part of the story; it is very much down to Olivier’s skill in the vineyard and the winery. The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc has a lovely fennel and aniseed aroma combined with delicate gooseberry fruits and a fresh citrus finish. [01] M8 D9
6680 Domaine Peirière Viognier, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $9.75
12 BTLS/750 ML
$117.00
Olivier Mandeville was one of the first people to plant a significant amount of land to Viognier in the Languedoc believing that the variety would do well under the Mediterranean sunshine. An erratic cropper with vigorous vegetative growth, it is a variety that is often difficult to control in the vineyard, but Olivier has become a master at it. Showing characteristic varietal aromas of peaches and white blossom, it has a soft, round palate and cooked apple flavours. [01] M8 D9
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN SA >>
Gascogny – a land of gastronomy Grape Variety Colombard, Ugni Blanc Aroma
Gooseberry, smoky
Taste
Good fruit, tangy acidity on the finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Best enjoyed chilled and young
Ideal with
Cod with tomato ginger sauce
Olivier can trace his families roots back to the days of William the Conqueror Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Pears, white fruits, mineral notes
Taste
Medium weight, fresh citrus finish
Serve
10° C
Evolution
Ready to drink now, it will be at its best over two years
Ideal with
Picnic pasta with shrimp
Few Sauvignons in the South can match this Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Fennel, gooseberry
Taste
Delicate, long citrus finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Excellent for early drinking
Ideal with
Oven-baked sea bass
Viognier – a difficult variety to master in the vineyard Grape Variety Viognier Aroma
Peaches, floral blossom
Taste
Baked apples, soft round structure
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Drink within two years
Ideal with
Veal scaloppini with saffron cream sauce
ALBERTA
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Peirière Grenache Rosé, IGP Pays d’Oc, 6681 Domaine 2011 $9.50
12 BTLS/750 ML
$114.00
Domaine Peirière is set in the Minervois at Azille close to the Montagne Noire. This has a major cooling effect so that the evening temperature in the vineyard drops dramatically, up to 20˚C. Old Grenache vines were harvested at night and the grapes pressed directly giving a light salmon pink colour. Cool fermentation has produced a wine with pear drops, banana and red fruit flavours. [01] M8 D9
6682 Domaine Peirière Pinot Noir, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $10.17
12 BTLS/750 ML
$122.00
In general the Languedoc is considered to be a hot region, but the location of Domaine Peirière with cool nights contrasting with warm sunny days makes it an ideal spot for grape varieties often found in what are considered to be much cooler climates. As has the Sauvignon Blanc, so too has the Burgundian Pinot Noir adapted to this mesoclimate producing a wine with black fruits and cassis, delightful spicy vanilla flavours and good tannic backbone. M7 D8
Simple and easy! Grape Variety Grenache Aroma
Pear drops, red berries
Taste
Soft, succulent red fruits
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Perfect now
Ideal with
As a “sundowner”, crab cocktail
Pinot Noir loves the cool night temperatures Grape Variety Pinot Noir Aroma
Black fruits, cassis
Taste
Vanilla spice, good tannic structure
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Optimum drinking over three years
Ideal with
Coq au vin
Thierry Coulon stands in front of 100 year old, 25,000 litre barrels that are still used to age the Château Blomac Minervois to provide softness to the wine.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN SA >>
6683 Domaine Blomac Merlot, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $9.50
12 BTLS/750 ML
$114.00
The village of Blomac lies in the Minervois region close to the Canal du Midi, an important waterway commissioned in the 17th century to serve as a shortcut between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The Canal was classified as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996. Red grape varieties are planted on gravelly chalky clay slopes. The Merlot has herbal leafy notes with nice structure ending on plums and black fruits. M7 D8
Blomac Cabernet Sauvignon, IGP Pays 6684 Domaine d’Oc, 2011 $9.50
12 BTLS/750 ML
$114.00
The wines are made by young winemaker Marie Toussaint; 27% of vineyards managers in France are now women. The Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in concrete tanks over a 10 day period with regular pump overs and “delestage”. Deep bright plum in colour, the 2011 Domaine Blomac Cabernet Sauvignon has cedar and cassis aromas. A soft attack on the palate expresses vanilla and mellow fruit flavours which unravel and lead to a delicious finish. M8 D8
6685 Domaine Blomac Syrah, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $9.50
12 BTLS/750 ML
$114.00
Having completed her winemaking studies in Montpellier in 2009, Marie Toussaint spent five months as assistant winemaker at Clonakilla in Australia. Renowned for its top cuvée which is a blend of Viognier and Syrah, she learnt about Syrah as a grape variety. Intensely coloured, the Domaine Blomac 2011 Syrah has appealing herbal and savoury notes with good tannin structure and pure dark fruits on the finish. M7 D8
6686
Château Blomac, AOP Minervois, 2010 $11.33
12 BTLS/750 ML
$136.00
This wine is produced from a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan from selected old parcels aged 30 to 40 years. The yields are low and the vines benefit from maximum sun during the day due to the slopes and orientation with cool nights allowing full flavour and colour development. Concentrated with smoky notes, depth and firm tannins, this wine will mature over a number of years. M6 D7
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN SA
Vineyards in proximity to the Canal du Midi Grape Variety Merlot Aroma
Herbal, leafy
Taste
Black fruits, plums
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will show its finest over three years
Ideal with
Bangers and mash, tomato-based pasta dishes
Female winemakers make their mark Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Cedar, cassis
Taste
Vanilla, black fruits
Serve
18° C
Evolution
This is a three year wine
Ideal with
Sirloin steak with garlic butter
Australian experience applied to Southern France Grape Variety Syrah Aroma
Wild herbs, savoury
Taste
Dark fruits, good tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will keep up to three years
Ideal with
Eggplant, tomato and pepper casserole, Comté
Old vines and low yields bring forth concentration Grape Variety Syrah, Carignan, Grenache Aroma
Smoky
Taste
Concentrated, dark fruits, firm tannin
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will reach maturity over three to five years
Ideal with
Ragoût de sanglier
ALBERTA
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visited Château Canet on June 16th last year when the vines were in full Château Canet Iswing. Having originally met Floris and his wife Vicky roughly 15 years ago when they were living in Burgundy, it was great to catch up and see firsthand Rustiques, what they have been up to at Château Canet. The couple seem to thrive on the hard work that is involved in running the 115ha estate comprised of vineyards, olive groves and nine guest cottages! Floris runs the farming Languedoc and winemaking side ably assisted by young cellar master Amandine in the winery. He is re-planting parts of the vineyard with new varieties which he proudly pointed out as we raced around the estate in his Second World War jeep, one hand on the wheel, one hand on his mobile. Vicky looks after the guest houses. It is an ideal base for anyone wanting to share their passion for good food (they make some of the best olive oil I have ever tasted) and wine, explore the region or simply relax around the tennis courts and pool.
Château Canet’s young Viognier vineyard basking in the autumn sun
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
6687 Domaine Canet Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $13.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$78.00
Having lived for many years in Burgundy, Floris knows a thing or two about quality Chardonnay and looks to create wines with finesse and freshness. To this end, the Chardonnay on the estate is always picked early, and in 2011 it was even earlier than normal on August 19th. The juice was left in contact with the skins for 24 hours to maximize flavour extraction. Part fermentation in oak barrels and part in stainless steel tanks has resulted in spice aromas and structure which complement pineapple and mango fruits. [00] M8 D9
6688 Domaine Canet Syrah, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2010 $13.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$78.00
At Château Canet over half the vineyard is planted with Syrah on clay and limestone soils. The vines benefit from a warm Mediterranean climate with the cool northerly Cers wind from the Atlantic and the warm Vent Marin from the coast. In order to preserve the fruit and natural rich structure provided by this terroir, the Syrah was not aged in oak and was bottled after six months maturation in tank. M8 D9
6689
Vignobles Canet, Picpoul de Pinet, Tête de Cuvée, AOP Coteaux du Languedoc, 2011 $13.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$79.00
Picpoul de Pinet specializes in producing light, refreshing, lemon-scented wines from the Picpoul grape. The appellation stretches along the Thau lagoon in close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea so that sea breezes limit daytime temperature. Here the Picpoul grape is cultivated on a limestone plateau. Floris has been working with this small domaine for three years and they produce this wine with fresh melons and pear drop aromas with a clean mineral finish. [00] M8 D9
6690
Château Canet, AOP Languedoc, 2010 $14.33
6 BTLS/750 ML
$86.00
Grenache makes up two thirds of this blend with the balance Syrah. Lashings of forest fruits on the nose are complemented by damsons, plums and bitter chocolate on the palate. The Grapes were picked in the early hours of the morning, and kept cool in tank for four days prior to fermentation at 27˚C. The wine was aged in tank for twelve months before bottling. M8 D9
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
Early picking produces a fresh style Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Tropical fruits, pineapple, mango, vanilla spice
Taste
Medium weight, lemon citrus finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Drink over two years
Ideal with
Grilled cod, Caesar salad with chicken
Syrah vines makes up the majority Grape Variety Syrah Aroma
Raisins, Christmas cake, earthy
Taste
Succulent palate with fine texture
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Appreciate it at its best over two years
Ideal with
Lamb tagine
Benefits from the sea breeze Grape Variety Picpoul Blanc Aroma
Melons, fleshy white fruits
Taste
Pears, citrus and mineral finish
Serve
8 - 10° C
Evolution
Enjoy while fresh
Ideal with
Oysters, grilled vegetables
A “vin gourmand” Grape Variety Grenache, Syrah Aroma
Forest fruits, blackberries
Taste
Bitter chocolate, damsons
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will keep up to three years
Ideal with
Roast beef
ALBERTA
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Cellar master Amandine separates the very young wine from its sediments after fermentation.
6691
Château Canet, AOP Minervois, Blanc, 2011 $15.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$91.00
White wine represents only 2% of the entire Minervois appellation. Château Canet is busy planting more white varieties. Having planted Viognier last year, the plan for this spring is to put in 1.3ha of Vermentino and a tiny bit of Muscat, but of course we won’t see the results from these for another three years at least. For the time being the 2011 is a 50/50 blend of Roussanne and the later ripening Bourboulenc. The fruit was harvested at 2:30am when temperatures were at their coolest; in summer, daytime temperatures in the vineyard are often 38 to 40˚C. Pale in colour, the wine has floral notes with a long mineral finish. [00] M8 D9
6692
Château Canet, AOP Minervois, Rosé, 2011 $15.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$91.00
A blend of Syrah, Grenache and a “soupçon” of Cinsault, by the time you read this the Cinsault will have been ripped out and the field left fallow for planting next year. The grapes come from some of the younger vines and were harvested in early September. The Syrah is directly pressed, the Grenache is left for a short time on skins, and both were fermented at 16˚C in stainless steel tanks and bottled early to retain all the freshness of the fruit with intense pear drops and melon aromas. [00] M8 D9
6693
Château Canet, AOP Minervois, Rouge, 2011 $15.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$91.00
Wild herbs, garrigue and lavender, the flavours of the region, show through in this wine. Deep plum in colour it also has berry fruits with a hint of leather. Produced from 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, after four days kept cool in tank, the juice was slowly fermented over a 20 day period. Approximately 15% of the wine was matured in one year old oak casks from the Vosges adding another dimension to the finished wine rather than overt oak. M7 D7
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
To determine the right time to harvest, the grapes are analyzed twice weekly to monitor the sugar and acidity levels, but Floris makes his final decision by simply tasting the grapes and judging the ripeness of the aromas.
A passage in oak for three weeks does not add oak, but softens Grape Variety Roussanne, Bourboulenc Aroma
Floral, white fruits
Taste
Mineral, crisp, spicy finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Perfectly ready
Ideal with
Seafood Cioppino
Focus on fruit Grape Variety Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault Aroma
Pear drops, red berries
Taste
Fresh fruits, balanced acidity
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Most attractive while fresh and young
Ideal with
Aperitif, crab cakes with spicy aioli and fresh chives
Vosges oak barrels are particularly suitable for Syrah Grape Variety Syrah, Grenache Aroma
Wild herbs, berry fruits
Taste
Full-bodied, firm tannins on the finish
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will develop and drink nicely up to four years
Ideal with
Rabbit stew with wild mushrooms
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
6694
Château Canet, La Chapelle, AOP Minervois, Cuvée Spéciale, 2011 [Wood Case] $25.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$154.00
A unique wine produced from 70 year old Grenache, the gnarled old vines are planted on the remnants of the 12th century chapel of Château Canet. Yields are small, producing intensely concentrated grapes. Left to fully ripen until late October, the fruit was carefully hand-picked and then underwent an extended cold soak for 10 days. The juice fermented over a three week period with pushing down of the cap by foot twice daily. The wine was left to macerate on skins a further 10 days. Intensely flavoured, it is true fruit forest compote with blackberries, blueberries and red fruits combined with a certain smokiness and good tannins. M7 D7
de la Baquière, Grand Caprice, AOP 6695 Domaine Corbières, 2010 [Wood Case] $20.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$121.00
The 18ha estate of Domaine de la Baquière sits in the dramatic and extreme surroundings of the Corbières on the western slopes of Mount Alaric close to the Aude River and the boundary with Minervois. Frédéric Corpel grows his grapes according to the Terra Vitis charter using environmentally friendly techniques. Each grape variety was harvested and vinified separately undergoing slow fermentation and maceration for up to 35 days. The wine was subsequently placed into barrel for malolactic fermentation and aged a further 11 months. It has interesting herbal, savoury and animal notes with good concentration and tannin. M7 D8
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET
Something special from an ever-decreasing yield Grape Variety Grenache Aroma
Blackberries, blueberries, red fruits
Taste
Rich, concentrated, good tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Delicious now, it will mature three to four years
Ideal with
Pheasant stew
Frédéric Corpel – winemaker and marathon runner Grape Variety Syrah, Grenache Aroma
Wild herbs, meaty
Taste
Concentrated, firm tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Drink over two to five years
Ideal with
Roast goose breast with winter vegetables
During harvest, “l’équipe de choque” or the “dream team” start early in order to pick the grapes at the coolest time of the day; at 3 am all hands are on deck and by the time all the grapes are in, a glass of wine is much appreciated!
ALBERTA
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LGI Wines Carcassonne Based in the medieval city and UNESCO classified site of Carcassonne and run by Alain Grignon, LGI has an impressive selection of wines and a great team of winemakers headed up by Xavier Roger. Speaking to Xavier at Vinisud as we tasted through the range, 2011 was a year that benefitted from evenly spread and generous rainfall. This followed drought conditions in previous years. It was one of the longest harvests starting with white grapes mid-August and ending with the last Cabernets at the beginning of October. Fortunately a long Indian summer meant grapes were brought in under perfect conditions.
Christophe Barbier is the owner of Château Bouisset in Fleury d’Aude. The vineyard is located on the magnificent “Massif de La Clape” where pebbles are the main soil component and the grapes are greatly influenced by the sea breezes. In this photo, Christophe takes a sample from his barrels, a procedure he follows several times during ageing to monitor the development of the wine.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Blanc, IGP Comté Tolosan, 2011, Sélection 6698 Lagarde du Vigneron $8.67
6696
12 BTLS/750 ML
$104.00
Free case for this Cellar Offering Coupon
6 BTLS/750 ML
This is a classic blend of Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes from the Gers region in the South West of France about 80km from the historic city of Toulouse. After six hours of skin contact at low temperature the grapes were gently pressed and the juice left to settle. Fermentation at low temperature has released limey fruit aromas with mango and other tropical fruits on the palate and a crisp finish. [01] M9 D9
Rouge, IGP Pays d’Hérault, 2011, Sélection 6699 Lagarde du Domaine $8.67
6697
12 BTLS/750 ML
$104.00
A traditional blend from Gers Grape Variety Ugni Blanc, Colombard Aroma
Limes, gooseberry
Taste
Mango, citrus finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Lively and ready
Ideal with
Aperitif, oven-poached fish in olive oil
Warm sunshine from the South of France Grape Variety Carignan, Grenache, Merlot
Free case for this Cellar Offering
Aroma
Mulberries, red fruits
Coupon
Taste
Soft and juicy red fruits
Serve
16 - 18° C
Evolution
Ready to be enjoyed
Ideal with
Classic burgers, veal chops
6 BTLS/750 ML
This wine is made from a blend of Carignan, Grenache and Merlot grapes grown between Narbonne and Béziers. The grapes were picked, destemmed and crushed then fermented and matured in tank creating a wine full of berry fruits including mulberries. Soft and easy to drink there is length and red fruit on the finish. M8 D9
6700 La Campagne Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $9.83
12 BTLS/750 ML
$118.00
An elegant style Chardonnay from the South of France, it is restrained with tropical fruits, pineapple and mango flavours. The fruit was harvested in the cool of night, destemmed and left for a short maceration prior to soft pressing to extract the most aromatic juice. It was fermented at a low temperature of 15˚C with no malolactic fermentation to give balanced acidity. [00] M8 D9
Campagne Cabernet Sauvignon, IGP Pays d’Oc, 6701 La 2011 $9.83
12 BTLS/750 ML
$118.00
A little restrained on the nose, with berry fruits, medium body and a ripe cherry finish, La Campagne Cabernet Sauvignon grapes underwent traditional vinification. Grapes grown on south facing slopes near Béziers were fermented in concrete tanks after destemming and crushing. M7 D8
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Elegant Chardonnay Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Pineapple, mango
Taste
Fresh fruits, balanced acidity
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Absolutely ready
Ideal with
Salmon club sandwiches with tamarind sauce
Grapes tasted at every stage are only picked when fully ripe Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Berry fruits
Taste
Ripe cherries, some tannin
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will persist up to three years
Ideal with
Charcuterie
ALBERTA
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6702
Tortoise Creek Sauvignon Blanc, IGP Côtes de Gascogne, 2011 $11.08
12 BTLS/750 ML
$133.00
Tortoise Creek, developed by Janie and Mel Master, has quite a following with Opimians. Sauvignon Blanc planted on selected parcels in Gascogny with chalky clay soils were used to produce the Tortoise Creek 2011. The grapes were night-harvested and left for 24 hours skin contact prior to pressing. The juice was then held for 30 days at zero degrees in order to extract full fruit flavours prior to fermenting. Gooseberry, smoky aromas combine with herbal leafy notes and a good mid-palate which leads to a fresh finish. [00] M8 D9
6703
Tortoise Creek Shiraz, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $10.92
12 BTLS/750 ML
$131.00
One of the most popular wines in the offering last year, the 2011 really lives up to its reputation. Head winemaker Xavier Roger scoured the whole of the Languedoc for the best parcels of Shiraz and the search was well worth it. The wine has a deep ruby colour with ripe plums, cooked fruits and spice on the nose. It is rich and concentrated with a slightly powdery texture. The grapes were harvested, destemmed and crushed then left to macerate for 48 hours at low temperature; 30% of the wine was oak-aged for three months. M7 D8
Unique vinification maximizes flavour Grape Variety Sauvignon Blanc Aroma
Gooseberry, smoky
Taste
Herbal, lime, a variety of citrus fruits
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Ready for immediate drinking
Ideal with
Asparagus soufflé, zucchini flower fritters
Only the best parcels for this wine Grape Variety Shiraz Aroma
Plums, cooked fruit, spice
Taste
Concentrated and rich
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Already drinking well, it will reach maturity in two to three years
Ideal with
Slow-grilled rack of lamb with mustard and herbs
Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, Cruzy is a typical small village of the Languedoc. Located between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains of the Haut-Languedoc, most of its inhabitants live from vine growing. The Tortoise Creek Shiraz is produced here.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
6704 Les Argelières Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2011 $10.75
12 BTLS/750 ML
$129.00
A much more expressive Chardonnay style, the wine is broader, fuller and oaky without being fat. The grapes are grown close to the village of Argeliers, 30km west of Béziers on gravelly soils. After pressing, the juice was fermented, 40% with French oak, at low temperature and subsequently aged on fine lees for three months. The result is a rich wine with spicy and vanilla toast oak on the nose and a succulent palate. While the oak is obvious it does not overly dominate the fruit and leads to a long, spicy finish. [00] M7 D8
6705 Domaine de Fontjun, AOP Saint-Chinian, 2011 $9.92
12 BTLS/750 ML
$119.00
The picturesque bustling village of Saint-Chinian dates back to 825AD and the foundation of a monastery by Saint Anian. The grapes are grown on south facing slopes, often at altitudes of 600M and above, and it has a reputation for producing quite tannic wines. The Domaine de Fontjun is a more elegant style. It has all the “garrigue” spice and flavour that one would expect, combined with red fruits and pure racy acidity. M7 D8
6706
Château Salitis, Cuvée Premium, AOC Cabardès, 2010 $12.83
12 BTLS/750 ML
$154.00
Cabardès is the region where the influence of the Atlantic Ocean meets that of the Mediterranean Sea. This is the only appellation in the Languedoc where it is permitted to blend southern grape varieties such as Syrah and Grenache with Atlantic varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec. All these grape varieties are in this wine. Château Salitis managed by Frédéric Maurel has produced a powerfully concentrated wine screaming for some cellaring. M6 D6
6707
Château La Clotte-Fontane, Mathiérou, AOP Coteaux du Languedoc, 2011 $13.42
12 BTLS/750 ML
$161.00
The La Clotte-Fontane estate lies close to the landmark that is the Pic Saint-Loup rising from the plain. The Château itself was built on the ancient ruins of a Roman villa. 38ha of vines are on gravelly, well-drained soils and are surrounded by hills covered with Mediterranean pine and oak trees. Owners Maryline and Philippe Pagès have produced a spicy, rich, structured wine with a solid tannic backbone and bursting with ripe black forest fruits. M7 D7
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Toasty oak style Grape Variety Chardonnay Aroma
Vanilla toast
Taste
Fruit, oak notes, long finish
Serve
8° C
Evolution
It will benefit from a little time in bottle
Ideal with
Roast butter chicken
Soft, flavoursome SaintChinian Grape Variety Syrah, Grenache Aroma
Wild herbs, red fruits
Taste
Red fruits, mineral
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will continue to develop, optimum drinking over three years
Ideal with
Spicy Toulouse sausage
Each grape variety is fermented separately then blended to make this premium wine Grape Variety Merlot, Cabernet, Malbec, Syrah, Grenache Aroma
Incense and spice
Taste
Dark fruits, firm tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Worth keeping a couple of years before opening
Ideal with
Braised venison stew
A cool weather, hearty red Grape Variety Grenache, Syrah Aroma
Spice, dark fruits
Taste
Structured with firm tannin
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will mellow up to four years
Ideal with
Steak & kidney pie
ALBERTA
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6708 Domaine des 3 As, AOP Corbières, 2010 $13.83
6 BTLS/750 ML
$83.00
The landscape of the Corbières region is a dramatic series of mountains and valleys with a patchwork of limestone, schist, clay, marl and sandstone soils. The family owned Domaine des 3 As passed to the young and dynamic Arnaud Sié in 2000. Arnaud cultivates 20ha of Carignan, Cinsault and Grenache on chalky clay soils at 400M. All grapes were hand-harvested. The Carignan undergoes carbonic maceration, with the Cinsault and Grenache traditionally fermented giving a densely coloured wine with intense blueberries, blackberries and a touch of petrol. Rich and concentrated it has good fruit and fine tannins. M7 D8
6709
Château Bouisset, Les Bécassines, AOP Coteaux du Languedoc, La Clape, 2011 $14.67
6 BTLS/750 ML
$88.00
The limestone massif known as La Clape lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Narbonne. A place of natural beauty, its long history of vine growing dates back to the “Phocéens” 600BC and the Romans 118BC. Christophe Barbier, owner of Château Bouisset, is a chef hence is devoted to making wines that pair well with food. Les Bécassines cuvée is a blend of 80% Grenache complemented with Syrah and Carignan grapes grown on clay slopes facing the sea. The wine has succulent fruit with good structure and the potential to age. M6 D7
6710 Manoir Grignon Angely, AOP Minervois, 2011 $17.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$102.00
Working closely with two growers in the Minervois, the team at LGI have produced this wine from Syrah and Grenache organically grown on chalky clay soils at 300M. Low yields have produced an intense wine with cassis and smoky aromas, good fruit concentration on the palate and fine tannins. M7 D7
Esprit des Pierres Grenache, Revelation, 6711 Domaine AOP Corbières, 2011 $19.17
6 BTLS/750 ML
$115.00
This wine is produced by Arnaud Sié from 100% Grenache grown at 450M on chalky clay soil. The high altitude makes a wine that is fresh and supple. The grapes were hand-harvested with careful selection in the vineyard. After destemming and crushing, an extended maceration ensued with regular, gentle manipulation of the cap (skins) to extract maximum flavour and tannins without bitterness. An intense explosion of red cooked fruits, raspberry coulis and raisin flavours is reinforced with lively acidity and great depth. M7 D8
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Dramatic terrain produces opulence Grape Variety Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache Aroma
Blueberries, blackberries
Taste
Ripe fruits, concentrated
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will age gracefully up to four years
Ideal with
Duck confit, Beaufort
Named after the Woodcock – perfect pairing Grape Variety Grenache, Syrah, Carignan Aroma
Wild herbs, dark fruits
Taste
Succulent fruit, concentrated and structured
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will continue to build up to five years
Ideal with
Woodcock almandine, goat cheese
A thorough selection throughout the region leads to a partnership with two growers Grape Variety Syrah, Grenache Aroma
Cassis, smoky
Taste
Black fruits, fine tannins
Serve
18° C
Evolution
More complexity will develop over two to four years
Ideal with
Braised lamb shanks, Roncal
A fruit explosion Grape Variety Grenache Aroma
Raisins, red fruits
Taste
Raspberry coulis, cooked fruit
Serve
18° C
Evolution
At its best over three years
Ideal with
Venison goulash
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES
Château Vignelaure’s “promenade” is lined with century old Plane trees, the typical tree planted in Provence.
Provence
Château Vignelaure Rians-en-Provence
Château Vignelaure was developed in the 1960s by Georges Brunet from Château La Lagune in Bordeaux. He was the first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in Provence, but vines had been cultivated here over a thousand years, archaeologists having recently unearthed a Roman winery dating back to the 1st century. A recent vertical tasting of wines going back to 1985 which had delicious cedary, spice and tobacco notes showed this terroir’s great potential. This led us to assemble a special case of older vintages for this cellar offering. These days the estate is managed by winemaker Philippe Bru who continues to make wines with elegance and poise.
CALIFORNIAChâteau PROVENCE BURGESSVignelaure CELLARS >>>>
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES
ALBERTA
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6713 Le Page de Vignelaure Rosé, IGP Méditerranée, 2011 $16.50
6 BTLS/750 ML
$99.00
Four hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot on stony chalky clay soils are the source for Le Page de Vignelaure Rosé. Harvest conditions during picking in 2011 were near to ideal with just two days of rain in five weeks. Pale baby pink in colour, the juice was left on the grape skins for a short maceration. It was then fermented slowly at low temperature and left on its lees prior to racking in February. The wine is labelled with the design personally created by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. [00] M8 D9
6714
Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Aroma
Fresh fruits
Taste
Supple fruit, medium length
Serve
8° C
Evolution
Instantly appealing
Ideal with
Aperitif, lobster rolls with lemon vinaigrette and garlic butter
Esprit de Nijinsky, IGP Coteaux du Verdon, 2007 $17.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$102.00
Six hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon produce this selected cuvée which is named after the famous prize-winning racehorse Nijinsky, owned and trained by previous owner David O’Brien’s father, Vincent. After a mild, dry winter, the vines budded early in 2007 with the rainy wet spring leading to fast vegetative growth. The summer was dry and cool and conditions at harvest were ideal. The wine was aged in oak for twelve months and now reveals mellow coconut flavours that complement red cherries, fine texture and a long finish. M8 D9 100% of the red wine production is picked by hand to ensure only the best fruit from the low yield, old vines is fermented.
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Most rosés in Provence are based on Syrah and Grenache
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 210
Named after the prize-winning horse Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon Aroma
Coconut, red cherries
Taste
Mellow fruits, long berry flavour
Serve
18° C
Evolution
It will continue to provide enjoyment for next four years
Ideal with
Magret de Canard Lavender is described as the scent and colour of Provence. It blooms from late June to August and can easily be found throughout the region, including outside the Château Vignelaure offices.
PROVENCE CALIFORNIA Château BURGESS Vignelaure CELLARS >>
Magnum bottles are the perfect size for long-term ageing of wines.
6715
Château Vignelaure, AOP Coteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2008 $24.83
6716
6 BTLS/750 ML
$149.00
Patience required in a cool vintage, but fully ripe grapes harvested Grape Variety Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
Château Vignelaure, AOP Coteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2008
Aroma
Nutmeg, liquorice, raisins
Taste
Silky texture, good acidity
$56.00
Serve
18° C
Evolution
Needs time to develop, drink over five to eight years
Ideal with
Boar tenderloin with roasted asparagus and green garlic sauce
3 BTLS/1500 ML
$168.00
After one year in bottle the 2008 is still very youthful and is just starting to show some complexity with a bouquet of nutmeg, liquorice and smoky notes. A cool vintage, the grapes were carefully selected in the vineyard with harvest taking place between September 27th and October 19th. A rainy spring was followed by a dry and relatively cool summer so that the grapes ripened slowly and harvest was two weeks later than the previous five years. It is worth hiding this bottle away in the cellar and forgetting it for a while. M5 D6
Mixed Vintages Case
6717
Château Vignelaure, AOP Coteaux d’Aix en Provence [Wood Case] Two bottles each: 2005, 2006, and 2007 $27.00
6 BTLS/750 ML
$162.00
While each vintage has its own characteristics, the special terroir at Château Vignelaure shines through in each of these wines. Produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Grenache, the proportions vary slightly depending on the vintage. All the wines were aged in oak for 14 to 16 months with one third of new oak. The great, medal-winning 2005 vintage is still quite closed with some complexity and more fruit on the finish and has plenty of life ahead of it. The 2006 has lovely blackcurrant cassis and rosemary notes, a little less concentrated than the 2005, but with plenty of future still and better than many 2006 Bordeaux wines. The 2007 has attractive spices and red fruits, fine texture and ends with elegance. 2005 - M5 D5 2006 - M6 D6 2007 - M6 D7
PROVENCE Château Vignelaure
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OUR COUPON PROGRAMS
Refer a new member, and upon
joining, both you and the new member will receive a coupon for one of two great rewards
YOUR COUPON GIVES YOU OPTIONS! 1. Order a case of wine & choose your free case from the free case choices for this Cellar Offering: Lot 6696 (See Lot 6698 on page 21) Lot 6697 (See Lot 6699 on page 21)
OUR WINE PROGRAMS OPIMIAN SELECT Taste the World!
Only Opimian gives you access to exclusive cellars from around the world. A successful innovation catered to New Members and those who are still uncertain of what to order, the Opimian Select program allows you to try a minimum of 24 wines – from every day sippers to a gourmet dinner partner – at a fixed price of $83. Sign up for Opimian Select and receive a mixed case from every Cellar Offering regardless of whether you are away, on holidays or simply forgot to place your order. Develop your palate, taste the classics from each region, discover new varietals and experience what our suppliers have to offer! Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE SELECTION Opimian Select includes a case (6 bottles) of three to six different wines from a featured supplier on each Cellar Offering. Mostly reds with the occasional white or rosé, these wines showcase the variety of styles available through Opimian - if you happen to find a favourite wine, make note of the supplier for future Cellar Offerings! To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Opimian Select” in the left hand column. View details by clicking on each wine name or supplier.
“Opimian Select is an educational experience and, as any wine lover knows, it is essential and fun to continuously try new things.”
~ David Lawrason, Toronto Life
OR 2. Order two cases of wine & receive $75 off your order
opim.ca OR
800-361-9421
“Opimian’s philosophy is to create bonds between people through wine.”
~ Roberto Echeverría, Opimian Supplier
FOUNDERS’ CHOICE Cherish the Experience! The premium wine experience – only with Opimian!
Established in recognition of Opimian’s founders, this program offers premium wines from our most cherished suppliers – at a fixed price of $123. Each wine is specifically selected to dedicate to the spirit of Opimian. Some are hidden jewels discovered in a cellar by our Master of Wine; others are specially crafted by our suppliers with the Founders’ Choice program in mind. Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE WINES Sign up for Founders’ Choice and receive a case (6 bottles) of premium wine from every Cellar Offering that is ready to drink and has great cellaring ability. Each wine comes with a dedicated back label and a personal message from the supplier detailing why they chose to share with us this one-of-a-kind wine. These wines are not, and will never be, on any Cellar Offering and can only be received by signing up for this program. To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Founders’ Choice” in the left hand column. Château Vignelaure is the Founders’ Choice feature supplier on this Cellar Offering. #420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC, H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca