CELLAR 234 Côte d’Or of Burgundy, LanguedocRoussillon and Provence
ALBERTA Order by May 25, 2015
ORDERING MADE EASY! WHAT TO ORDER Read the description or use the profile chart for each wine to help you make your selections. The profile chart features a variety of symbols; consult the legend below to discover which symbols best suit your palate. THERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO ORDER • Order online. Go to opim.ca , sign in and select Order Wine - Show Details or Quick Order Wine. • Email opim@opim.ca with your selection. • Call 1-800-361-9421. • Fax your order to 514-481-9699. • Mail your order. THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO REDEEM YOUR COUPON From the same Cellar Offering… • Order a case of wine and choose your free case from the coupon wines listed on the back cover. OR • Order two cases of wine and receive $75 off your order. Restrictions: Coupons are non-transferrable and cannot be exchanged for cash. See coupon for full details Exclusions: Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice Programs. 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 your pick up location. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca. Expected arrival at a Canadian Port is early September 2015. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board, and processing time required by each liquor board. LET US HELP YOU! Contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or email us at opim@opim.ca CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE • Methods of Payment: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque payable to Opimian. • Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including GST/HST #105 233 217 and QST #1000640430. • A valid 2015 membership card is required to order and pick up. • Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum required. • Last day to order from this Cellar Offering: May 25, 2015.
A glass of Château Canet Minervois reflects the passion we put into the making, maturing and bottling of our wine. It is a perfect image with which to acknowledge the Opimian Society and raise a glass to the Opimian team and members, to thank you all for your support over the past five years. We are happy to have the opportunity to share our passion with you. À votre santé, Victoria & Floris Lemstra-Bake
LEGEND Members’ Choice
White
Aroma
Drink this year
Red
Taste
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
Rosé
Serving temperature
Opimian Suggests Wine meant for laying down
Ideal with
Sparkling
Bottle size Great concentration Heavy oak
Number of bottles in case Medium concentration
Light in body
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cases available Very limited quantities
Extremely 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 234
Medal Winner
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Appeared in the C226 Select Cases (2014 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.
Sweetness scale gms/litre 00 0-3 01 4-6 02 7 - 12 03 13 - 20 04 21 - 34 05 35 - 50 06 51 - 74 07 75 - 100 08 101 - 139 09 140 - 179 10 180 >
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 Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
C ELL AR OFFE RING 234
Côte d’Or of Burgundy, Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence
Our final visit to France this cellar offering season includes wines from one of the finest and most complicated regions in the world, that of Burgundy. From this highly fragmented collection of individuals along the Côte d’Or we have sought out independently-minded growers with focus and zeal, producing quality wines. 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.
Château Vignelaure is set on a high plateau close to the small town of Rians, away from mainstream Provence. An American wine critic once described it as “one of the showpiece properties not only of Provence, but of the whole of France”. Provence is synonymous with rosé wine, dedicating 80% of its total wine production to rosé. Château Vignelaure certainly produces a fine rosé, but the real jewel in the crown is its red wines and, in particular, the Grand Vin, Château Vignelaure. Last year, we offered a mixed vintages case. It was so popular and the wines so good that we went back for more. The wines of the Languedoc-Roussillon benefit from the sunny blue skies and warmth of the Mediterranean climate. Within this area the best vineyards have the cooling influence of the sea breeze or higher altitudes such as those at Château Canet in Minervois. Some members may be disappointed not to find any wines from the Loire this time around. But, fear not amateurs of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé. Try the Saint-Bris Sauvignon produced by young winemaker Pierre Sorin, his first vintage ever; we are his first export customer. He is a rising star. As an alternative to Muscadet, I would recommend the refreshing Picpoul de Pinet produced by Floris Lemstra at Château Canet, and the only appellation in the Languedoc entirely dedicated to quality white wine production. As for the reds, well, there is plenty of choice! Bernard Perrin p. 6
Paul Sapin p. 20
Domaine Billard Père et Fils p. 12
LGI Wines p. 24
Château Canet p. 16
Château Vignelaure p. 28
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
BURGUNDY >>
Burgundy Burgundy is renowned for being one of the finest, yet most complicated wine regions of the world. It is one of the most fragmented with the average domaine a mere 7.5 hectares in size. Its heart, the Côte d’Or, is divided into 25 different communes and there are over 500 appellations. The northern half of the Côte d’Or, from Marsannay-la-Côte to Corgoloin, is known as the Côte de Nuits, and the southern sector from Ladoix-Serrigny down to Santenay comprises the Côte de Beaune. Generally, the best vineyards sit on slopes facing east and southeast within a band between 225 and 300 metres altitude. Burgundy lies on a fault line so that sea beds from different epochs, rich in calcium, have been mixed with soils from weathered rocks. The result is a myriad of soils and textures layered over outcrops of calcareous clay and marl with varying expositions to the sun. To the passer-by neighbouring vineyards look pretty much the same, but experience has shown they have the potential to produce hugely different wines. Vineyards surround each of the villages and over the centuries these have been divided and sub-divided into small plots, each with its boundaries precisely defined. The Côte d’Or is the region of France, indeed of the world, which has been studied the longest. In the 12th century, the Cistercian and Benedictine monks compared crus to determine each one’s potential and the Dukes of Burgundy encouraged the development of quality wines in the 14th and 15th centuries. Each generation has added to the sum total of local knowledge of the climats and crus of these rolling hills. Individual landholdings are small, often less than a hectare in any one vineyard. A given named vineyard is usually owned by many growers with monopoles (wholly-owned single plots) a rarity. It is possible for 80 different growers to own part of a vineyard, therefore producing 80 different wines. There are four levels of quality with the most basic wines simply labelled Bourgogne. At the top of the pyramid are the Grands Crus, of which there are 31, with the next in rank being the Premier Crus. These use the name of the commune in which they are located and, if they are from a single cru, the name of the vineyard or climat; for example, Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, Les Castets. Often, quantities produced are so small that growers combine the production from Premier Cru sites within a commune. The wine would then be labelled Saint-Aubin 1er Cru. Village or communal appellation wines fall into the third rank with the name of a specific vineyard or lieu-dit sometimes appended. The small nature of many of the wine estates has led to over half of the wine produced in Burgundy being sold by growers in bulk to négociant houses who blend to produce commercial quantities that are sold. But, the négociants themselves will admit that one of, if not, the most important indicators of wine quality in Burgundy is the grower himself. From this highly fragmented collection of individuals we have sought out independently-minded growers with a focus and zeal to get the best from their terroirs and who produce and bottle their quality wines. BURGUNDY >>
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Bernard Perrin Ternand Négociant en vins
Vincent Bachelet comes from a winemaking family that spans four generations and he is passionate about the wine he makes. Here he tastes his ChassagneMontrachet in the magnificent cellar located in the 18th century building he has been restoring.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN >>
8166 $18.67
$112.00
Domaine Pierre Sorin, Saint-Bris Sauvignon, AOC, 2014 Opimian is Pierre Sorin’s very first export customer and among his first customers since starting his domaine in April, 2014. The 24 year old studied viticulture at the Lycée in Beaune and then in Mâcon and that, combined with his passion and dynamism, is a recipe for success. After working on his family’s estate for three years, the opportunity to purchase vines of his own presented itself in April, 2014. Pierre currently owns just four hectares, with 2.6 hectares in Saint-Bris, but if the quality of his wines is anything to go by, this young winemaker will go far. His 2014 Saint-Bris Sauvignon has intense aromas of cassis leaf. Concentrated and rich, it has depth with a long, herbal finish. The small appellation of Saint-Bris, lying just south of the Chablis region, is the only appellation in Burgundy that cultivates the Sauvignon Blanc grape variety. Domaine Pierre Sorin lies on the edge of the village of Saint-Bris-leVineux, 15 kilometres from the town of Chablis. Its vineyards are planted on Portlandian chalk soils. I look forward to watching this man as a rising star. Anyone disappointed not to find Sancerre or Pouilly Fumé from the Loire this time around, should order this wine; you will not be disappointed! Sauvignon Blanc Cassis leaf, intense Rich, concentrated, herbal finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Winter kale soup with Burgundy snails tortellini, toasted garlic and tomato fondue
Northern Côte d’Or Côte de Nuits
8167 $22.33
As a grower Bernard Perrin, based at the southern end of the region in Beaujolais, is passionate about wine as well as the history and culture associated with it. He has also been a long-time Opimian supporter. Over a few glasses of wine with him and his wife Blandine last year, we talked about the difficulty of getting to grips with Burgundy, especially at a time when several harvests in a row had been small, demand high and prices rising. Together, we undertook to find some exciting young producers from Burgundy and to bring them to Opimian members. Some of the growers we present have a family history in wine, others are more recently established. All of them produce interesting quality wines.
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN >>
$134.00
Domaine Thevenot-Le Brun & Fils, Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Nuits, AOC, 2013 Domaine Thevenot-Le Brun & Fils, based in the commune of Marey-lèsFussey and considered one of the best in the Hautes Côtes de Nuits, is just 10 kilometres west of the town of Nuits-Saint-Georges, the capital of the Côte de Nuits. The estate and its 26 hectares of vineyards have been run by Nicolas, the fifth generation of vignerons, since 2009. The estate was developed by his father and uncle before him and their parents before them. Rare in Burgundy, the Thevenot-Le Brun Hautes Côtes de Nuits is actually a blend of 80% Pinot Blanc and 20% Chardonnay. This cool climate obviously suits the grape and has produced a wine with stone fruit flavours, pears and an almond characteristic. It is soft with taut acidity and a deliciously cleansing finish. The vines are situated in the commune of Marey-lès-Fussey on some of the steepest slopes. The wine was mostly aged in tank with just a small proportion spending six months in new oak barrels, adding an extra dimension and creaminess on the palate, but no obvious oak flavour. Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay Stone fruits, pears, almonds White fruits, fresh acidity, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Poached filet of sole with mushroom beurre noir and almond couscous
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After working on his family’s estate for several years, young winemaker Pierre Sorin has set off on his own in the small appellation of SaintBris. Here he is pruning young Sauvignon Blanc vines.
8168
$24.17
$145.00
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Domaine Thevenot-Le Brun & Fils, Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Nuits, “Clos du Vignon”, Monopole, AOC, 2013 There are few “monopoles” (whole vineyards in the hands of one owner) in Burgundy, but the Clos du Vignon is one and the only one in the Hautes Côtes de Nuits. A seven hectare parcel, it is situated close to the site of the ancient Abbaye du Lieu-Dieu and was already cultivated in the 13th century by the nuns resident there. The “clos” is still surrounded by the ancient, dry, stone wall. The vineyard was abandoned after it was devastated by phylloxera until the early nineteen sixties when Maurice Thevenot, Nicolas’ grandfather, re-planted the steep slopes with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The topsoil is shallow and very stony over clay, chalk base forcing the vines’ roots to dig deep down in search of water. The east, southeast slopes allow the grapes to fully ripen. The 2013 Clos du Vignon is quite light in structure with earthy fruits, bitter cherries and a smoky finish. After fermentation, the wine was matured for a year in one to two year old barrels.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Pinot Noir Earthy fruits Bitter cherry, smoky 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Coq au vin
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN >>
8169 $29.33
$176.00
8170 $29.33
$176.00
8171 $32.17
$193.00
Domaine du Vieux Collège, Marsannay, Les Vignes Marie, AOC, 2013 Marsannay lies at the northern end of the Côte de Nuits and has a long viticultural history, even for Burgundy, with wine being made here in the 7th century under religious aegis, yet it is the most recent appellation of the Côte de Nuits, established in 1987. Since gaining appellation status, it has seen a revival in its fortunes. Marsannay now has some 40 growers producing mainly red wines. The best sites are the slopes behind and to the west of the village. The Les Vignes Marie vineyard rises from 282 to 295 metres on a gentle slope with a two to four percent gradient facing directly east. Domaine du Vieux Collège has 2.2 hectares of Chardonnay there, planted 15 years ago. The Marsannay Les Vignes Marie 2013 is bright in colour with intense vanilla, coconut and spicy aromas. Rich on the palate, it has succulent fruits with good weight and a moreish vanilla and fruit finish. It was fermented and matured for 12 months in oak, 30% new. While the oak is prominent, it is integrated and fine, resulting in a super quality wine.
Domaine du Vieux Collège, Marsannay, Les Récilles, AOC, 2013 Les Récilles vineyard lies a little further north of Les Vignes Marie on a gentler one percent gradient at an altitude of 274 to 283 metres facing southeast. Domaine du Vieux Collège, farmed by Eric Guyard, has 4.8 hectares of 30 year old Pinot Noir at Les Récilles on stony soils mixed with clay and alluvial deposits. The 25 hectares of the domaine are currently undergoing conversion to organic farming. The Marsannay Les Récilles 2013 has dark fruits, cassis and smoky aromas. The wine was matured in a combination of oak barrels and larger wooden vats for 12 months, 25% new. The palate is structured and concentrated with chewy tannins on the finish. It will benefit from a year or two in bottle before drinking.
Domaine du Vieux Collège, Fixin, Les Champs des Charmes, AOC, 2013 Somewhat overshadowed by the more famous neighbouring Gevrey-Chambertin, Fixin is often underrated. Yet, until the end of the 17th century Fixin wines were of greater repute. Eric has 1.2 hectares in Les Champs des Charmes vineyards at the southern boundary of the appellation. 40 year old Pinot Noir vines are planted on the gentle slope around 275 metres facing due east. The subsoil, principally composed of Bresse marl, is covered with fairly deep clay topsoil. With similar smoke and cassis notes as the Marsannay Les Récilles, yet with more depth, it is also more concentrated on the palate, with rich, ripe mid-palate fruit, a fine, silky texture, and great length and depth on the finish. The wine was aged in barrel for 12 months with 30% new oak.
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN >>
Chardonnay Vanilla, coconut, spice Succulent fruits, vanilla finish, [00] 8° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Creamy chicken and mushroom pie
Pinot Noir Cassis, dark fruits Structured, chewy, dark fruit finish 18° C 2016-2020, M6 D7 Roasted veal tenderloin forestière with potato foie gras cake and truffle sauce
Pinot Noir Cassis, ripe dark fruits Concentrated, good depth 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Seared duck breast with wine-poached figs
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8172 $44.67
$268.00
Domaine Cruchandeau, Nuits Saint Georges, aux Saints Jacques, AOC, 2013 Established by Julien Cruchandeau ten years ago, the Domaine Cruchandeau has a mere four hectares of vines spread across seven appellations. Julien has a miniscule 16.5 ares in Nuits-Saint-Georges producing the grand total of 800 bottles per year. Born in 1978, unlike most of the producers in this cellar offering, Julien did not come from a family of vignerons. He initially became interested in wine while training and working in restaurants, returning to Burgundy in 2000 to study viticulture in Beaune while at the same time working for a domaine in Gevrey-Chambertin. At the grand old age of 25 he created his own domaine. The climat of Saints Jacques sits at an altitude of 240 metres at the northern end of the Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation, close to the border with Vosne-Romanée. The vines were planted in 1947 and face directly east on the slope beneath the Premier Cru vineyards. The grapes were picked by hand, sorted and part de-stemmed. An extended cold maceration for 10 days was followed by fermentation and long maceration with regular punching down and pumping over. The wine has a brick ruby hue with developed meaty, savoury flavours and fine tannins.
Pinot Noir Earthy fruit Meaty, savoury 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D8 Cornish game hen with gremolata butter, green beans and truffle mashed potatoes
Southern Côte d’Or Côte de Beaune
8173 $29.67
$178.00
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Domaine Dubois Bernard & Fils, Chorey-lesBeaune, Clos Margot, AOC, 2013 Like most growers in Burgundy, the Domaine Dubois Bernard & Fils has plots in several communes with a total of 13 hectares spread across Chorey-les- Beaune, Savigny-lès-Beaune, Aloxe-Corton and Beaune. The family have been vignerons since around 1800; the vines today have an average age of 50 years. The appellation of Chorey-les-Beaune is sandwiched between that of AloxeCorton and Savigny-lès-Beaune; its vineyards are on lowerlying, flatter land on alluvial and limestone soils deposited by the Rhoin River as it descended from the Hautes Côtes towards the plain. The Chorey-les-Beaune Clos Margot has smoky, herbal notes with flavours of vanilla and cherries balanced by fine acidity. The grapes were left to cold soak prior to fermentation, followed by a natural fermentation by wild yeast and maturation in oak, 25% new.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Pinot Noir Smoke, dark fruit Vanilla, herbs, cherries 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Venison filet mignon with Amarena cherries, port wine reduction and rosemary potatoes
Domaine Thevenot-Le Brun’s Clos du Vignon is located close to the site of the ancient Abbaye du Lieu-Dieu. As a “monopole” it is exclusively owned and farmed by the domaine.
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN >>
8174 $30.33
$182.00
8175 $33.17
$199.00
8176 $36.50
$219.00
Domaine Dubois Bernard & Fils, Savigny-lèsBeaune, “Les Ratausses”, AOC, 2013
Pinot Noir
The village of Savigny-lès-Beaune lies in the opening of a peaceful wooded valley, La Combe de la Fontaine, just a few kilometres north of the hustle and bustle of Beaune. Savigny occupies an important spot in Burgundy’s viticultural history for it was the Comte de la Loyère, who ran the Côte d’Or viticultural committee from 1854 to 1879, who planted vines in straight rows and used a plough for the first time, invented the first de-stemming machine, and was mates with Dr. Jules Guyot, developer of the Guyot training system now used the world over. With more obvious oak than the Dubois Bernard & Fils Chorey-les-Beaune, it has a smoky, toasty oak nose with cloves and dark fruit aromas; it was matured in oak for 15 months. The palate is rich and concentrated with a long, spicy finish and more potential to cellar than the previous wine. The “Les Ratausses” vineyard lies in Savigny-lèsBeaune on the border with Chorey-les-Beaune.
Smoke, toasty oak, cloves, dark fruit
Domaine Vincent Bachelet, Santenay, AOC, 2013
Pinot Noir
Vincent Bachelet is from a family of vignerons originally based in Dezize-lès-Maranges. In 2007, he took on the old premises and cellars of the négociant house of Marcilly and has since been restoring the 18th century building which had stood empty and abandoned for years. Vincent has 14 hectares of vineyards in total spreading from this most southern point of the Côte d’Or into the Côte de Nuits. There are radical variations in the soils and geology in Santenay; some areas produce robust wines, others, such as this, are lighter, yet full of elegance. Vincent Bachelet’s Santenay 2013 has red berry flavours with a succulent mid-palate ending on notes of sour cherry and raspberry.
Red berries
Domaine Vincent Bachelet, ChassagneMontrachet, Les Benoites, AOC, 2013
Pinot Noir
In comparison to his Santenay, Vincent’s ChassagneMontrachet is more rustic and masculine in style. Chassagne-Montrachet produces more and is better known for white wine production, but not all the soils are suitable for the Chardonnay grape; the deeper soils with higher iron oxide content are better suited to Pinot Noir. Les Benoites vineyard lies directly south of the village of Chassagne-Montrachet. The Chassagne-Montrachet Les Benoites 2013 has developed earthy notes with a hint of truffle, leather and coffee. The palate has good concentration with a bitter chocolate finish. The wine was matured in the restored stone cellar for 12 months with 20% new oak barrels.
BURGUNDY BERNARD PERRIN
Concentrated fruit, spicy finish 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Roast pheasant with lentils and Swiss chard
Succulent fruits, sour cherries, raspberries 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Roast guinea fowl with braised baby beets and creamed carrot purée
Earthy, leather, truffle Coffee, concentrated, bitter chocolate finish 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Seared wild boar tenderloin with rosemary, morel risotto and caramelized onion butter
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Domaine Billard Père et Fils La Rochepot
Grass is allowed to grow between the rows during winter months making it easier to pass through the vineyards when the ground is wet, but in spring, it is ploughed into the soil to avoid competition with the vines for water and nitrogen.
Jérôme Billard is a Bourguignon through and through and Opimians have been following his wines for many years. He loves his region, his food, his vines and, of course, his wine. He and his wife Elisabeth, with their three boys Louis, Victor and Gauthier, live in the little village of La Rochepot of which he is mayor; he was re-elected in the first round last year. Their house, located above the bottle cellar, adjoins the barrel cellar, so he is never far away. Jérôme started working with his father in 1993. At that time, there were just five hectares mainly in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune. All their wine was sold in bulk to local négociants. In 1999, Jérôme became solely responsible and took on another seven hectares of Aligoté and Saint-Aubin 1er Cru. Slowly over the years, he has built up piecemeal a total surface of 18.5 hectares of vineyards in production today. It’s not easy. Vineyards are in limited supply and there are many with deeper pockets than he queuing at the door. By keeping his ear to the ground, being in the right place at the right time, and negotiating 20 ares here and 30 ares there, he has got some really prime sites.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
BURGUNDY DOMAINE BILLARD PÈRE ET FILS >>
8177 $19.00
$114.00
8178 $19.00
$114.00
8179 $22.67
$136.00
Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, La Justice, AOC, 2014 As one stands in Jérôme’s La Justice vineyard at 400 metres, there is a magnificent viewpoint down to SaintAubin and Auxey-Duresses with the village of Meursault visible in the distance. La Justice lies in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune on a calcareous plateau; 1.2 hectares of vines were planted in 1983 with an additional 0.8 hectares planted more recently, but which are not yet in production (it takes three years for vines to start producing fruit). Jérôme believes that climate change now means that fully ripe grapes are achieved year after year at this altitude. Previously, it was more sporadic, but today the climate at 400 metres in the Hautes-Côtes is the same as it was 25 years ago in Savigny at 200 metres. La Justice 2014 has aromas of fresh apples with some hazelnut and a soft, ripe palate. The wine was fermented in barrel using oak from both the Allier and Vosges forests.
Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, AOC, 2014 The 2014 is an elegant wine with poise. Aromas of red fruits and a hint of violets lead to a juicy mid-palate and fresh red berry finish. It was matured for eight months in oak, 10% new. Pinot Noir was planted 40 years ago on clay, loam soils using a selected rootstock which reduces the vegetative vigour of the plant and, therefore the yield of bunches of grapes per vine. Jérôme also allows grass to grow between the rows of vines during the winter months, making it easier to pass through the vineyard when the ground is wet. This is ploughed into the soil in spring and then allowed to grow again in the late summer to reduce excess moisture and hence, the risk of rot in the run-up to harvest.
Auxey-Duresses, AOC, 2014 As one follows the main slopes of the Côte de Beaune southwards, there is an intersection close to the village of Meursault with a side valley shooting off westwards to the village of Auxey-Duresses and on to Saint-Romain. This same road leads up to La Rochepot, Jérôme’s home village, where he is mayor. Auxey-Duresses is a small commune in Burgundy that is going through a bit of a transformation. For many years its wines were incorporated into those of its more famous neighbours, Volnay and Pommard. Now, it is developing a justly deserved reputation of its own. Jérôme cultivates 1.25 hectares on the southfacing clay, limestone slope. The grapes were harvested on September 17th. The 2014 Auxey-Duresses has floral aromas with nuttiness behind. The palate is soft with ripe fruit flavours and an elegant, silky texture.
BURGUNDY DOMAINE BILLARD PÈRE ET FILS >>
Chardonnay Fresh apples, hazelnuts Ripe fruits, [00] 8° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Endive salad with Roquefort, apples and toasted hazelnuts
Pinot Noir Red fruit, violet Juicy fruits, soft 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Grilled salmon with sweet onions and red bell peppers
Pinot Noir Floral, nutty Ripe fruits, silky texture 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Herb-roasted pork tenderloin, sweet potatoes with candied pecans and pancetta green beans
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8180 $23.67
$142.00
8181 $27.33
$164.00
8182 $25.17
$151.00
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Beaune, Les Bons Feuvres, AOC, 2014 The town of Beaune is the cultural and spiritual capital of Burgundy and the Côte d’Or. This is where many of the large négociant companies were established centuries ago, based in the narrow streets leading off from the main square with cavernous cellars below street level. The town is also home to the famous charity auction the Hospices de Beaune which takes place each November. The medieval Hotel-Dieu, with its brightly-coloured, iconic tiled roof, was founded in 1441 and still exists as a charitable hospital funded by the monies collected in the auction. The vineyards of the Beaune appellation lie in an arc to the west and north of the town. Les Bons Feuvres sits directly on the right hand side of the road that leads westwards to Pommard. The soil is loamy with high iron content and has produced a wine which is quite restrained, with earth and leather notes. On the palate it has good weight and structure with silky tannins and balanced acidity. The grapes were harvested by hand on September 16th and the wine matured in oak for nine months.
Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, Vignes Moingeon, AOC, 2014 Jérôme’s 2014 Vignes Moingeon shouts quality, expressing the full potential of this Premier Cru vineyard. The Premier Crus of Saint-Aubin lie in two parts, those on the slopes of the Montagne du Ban and those on the Roche Dumay to the southeast of the village of Gamay. Vignes Moingeon lies on the former with a southern exposition and is planted on limestone marl soils at 300 metres. Jérôme has a hectare on this site and is the only grower to produce a wine solely from this Premier Cru terroir. Bright in colour, the Vignes Moingeon 2014 has delicious toasted hazelnuts and ripe fruit aromas. The palate is rich and complex with smoky flavours and a long, lingering, spicy finish. It was fermented and matured in Allier oak barrels, 33% new. Delicious already, it will retain its vibrancy for several years.
Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, Les Castets, AOC, 2014 The villages of Gamay and Saint-Aubin lie in a small side valley or coomb leading westwards from the main Côte. Off the main drag, it was for many years overlooked, but this is fine terroir and Les Castets is one of the best Premier Cru sites in Saint-Aubin for Pinot Noir. Sitting on the outskirts of the village itself on the Montagne du Ban, it is named after the ancient fortifications of the Middle Ages (archaeological discoveries suggest that the area was inhabited during the Bronze and Iron ages). Jérôme has just 0.32 hectares here on great limestone, marl, and white marl soils facing south, southeast. The red wines of Saint-Aubin are sometimes described as rustic in character; Jérôme’s Les Castets 2014 is anything but. Relatively pale in colour, it has appealing cherry aromas with a hint of rose petal. The palate is elegant and wellbalanced with great length ending on flavours of sour cherries, cranberries and griottes. It was matured in a combination of Tronçais and Vosges oak barrels for nine months with a third new oak.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Pinot Noir Earthy fruits, leather Well-structured 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D8 Wild mushroom risotto
Chardonnay Toasted hazelnuts, ripe fruits Spicy, rich, complex, smoke, [00] 8° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Pumpkin ravioli in browned butter
Pinot Noir Cherries, roses Elegant, sour cherries 16° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Seared duck breast with port and sour cherries, and corn and leek fondue
BURGUNDY DOMAINE BILLARD PÈRE ET FILS >>
8183 $31.17
$187.00
8184 $35.83
$215.00
Chassagne-Montrachet, Les Morichots, AOC, 2014 Chassagne-Montrachet may be more often associated with white wines, but on selected sites it produces some excellent reds too. These tend to be the sites with deeper, richer soils making them more suitable for Pinot Noir than Chardonnay. Les Morichots vineyard lies south of the village on limestone marl. Jérôme’s 0.2 hectares have yielded an intense, succulent wine full of red fruits and berries, raspberry, red cherry, strawberry, and menthol aromas. The 2014 is full of finesse and elegance with a fine texture and long, red berry finish. Already deliciously appetizing, it was matured in Vosges oak barrels for nine months, with 30% new oak, and will develop nicely over the next few years. After an early and warm spring in 2014, summer was tricky with cool and wet conditions. Fortunately, the start of September brought sunshine and warmth again so that ripe, healthy grapes were picked on September 19th, producing fine quality wine.
Pommard, AOC, 2014 Jérôme has a miniscule 0.5 ares (100 ares = 1 hectare) which go in to produce this Pommard. The vineyard is located on the lower ground; it is close and similar land to the famous Premier Crus Les Epenots climats. Pommard is a bit of an anomaly in that the best sites are lower down the slope than the rest of the Côte. These are stony, well-drained soils with loam and limestone, the result of an ancient river that flowed through. The wines produced are powerful while retaining Jérôme’s characteristic elegant style. Intense in colour, his Pommard 2014 has cooked red fruits and raspberry aromas. Soft and rich on the palate, it has flavours of red berries, violets and vanilla with a lingering finish. It was aged in Allier oak barrels for nine months with one third new oak.
BURGUNDY DOMAINE BILLARD PÈRE ET FILS
Pinot Noir Raspberries, red cherries, menthol Strawberries, fine texture, cherry finish 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Grilled rack of lamb with herb crust served with roasted beet salad
Pinot Noir Cooked red fruits, raspberries Rich red berries, violets, vanilla 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Partridge with pearl barley, pancetta, roast fig, walnut and jus
Labelling and packaging is completed! These cases are ready to be placed on pallets and to leave the cellar en route to their final destinations.
ALBERTA
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Languedoc-Roussillon Victoria and Charlotte, two generations of Château Canet, working together, handpicking the Muscat in the early morning of September 2nd, 2014.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
Château Canet Rustiques, Languedoc
8185 $11.83
$71.00
8186 $11.83
$71.00
Château Canet, and its 50 hectares of vineyards, is located in what is known as the Balcon de l’Aude in the Minervois region, 10 kilometres east of the medieval city of Carcassonne at Rustiques. The vines are planted on gentle slopes of clay and limestone, benefitting from the cool northerly wind from the Atlantic known as the Cers, and the warmer Vent Marin blowing in from the Mediterranean Sea. For Floris, Vicky, their children, and numerous dogs this is not just their home, but their whole way of life. The family produces their own honey from beehives placed in the middle of the wild herbs and scrubland which surround the vineyards, olive oil, have planted truffle oaks and run guest houses on the property. If you can’t find Floris in the winery or vineyards, then he is more likely than not to be found stoking up the large barbecue in front of the house, chucking on a couple of humungous entrecôte steaks and entertaining guests over a few glasses of wine. On top of all that, he finds the time to make some delicious wines; his 2014 Chardonnay Special Oak Réserve won Gold at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris in February this year!
Sauvignon, Baronnie de Canet, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 The fruit source for the Baronnie de Canet Sauvignon is a vineyard that lies just south of the medieval city of Carcassonne. Vines are planted on clay, limestone soils with localized gravel patches. The typical gooseberry flavours associated with Sauvignon Blanc are complemented with soft mid-palate fruit and a fresh lemon and lime finish. Early harvesting was a key element in retaining the grapes’ natural acidity. The wine was fermented at low temperature and bottled after six months in tank ensuring a crisp, fruity style perfectly ready for drinking.
Merlot, Baronnie de Canet, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 Merlot vineyards are planted on the slopes around Carcassonne. The grapes were de-stemmed, crushed and left to macerate at low temperature prior to fermentation. Deep in colour, the Baronnie de Canet Merlot 2014 has dark fruits and leafy aromas. On the palate it is mediumbodied with good depth and fresh, marked acidity.
Sauvignon Blanc Gooseberry Lemon, limes, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Tomato salad with basil cream dressing
Merlot Dark fruits, leaf Soft, good acidity 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Spinach lasagna
8187 $13.83
$83.00
Vignobles Canet Picpoul de Pinet, Tête de Cuvée, AOP Picpoul de Pinet, 2014 Unsurprisingly, given its climate, most of the Languedoc produces a majority of red wines, but Picpoul de Pinet specializes in white. Another anomaly; it’s a varietal appellation (rare in France outside of Alsace) for Picpoul is the name of the grape variety. The appellation of Picpoul de Pinet lies close to the bank of the Bassin de Thau, a lagoon that sits behind the port of Sète on the Mediterranean coast. Vineyards extend from the edge of the lagoon inland beyond the village of Pinet towards Pézenas. The Vignobles Canet Picpoul de Pinet 2014 is pale in colour with a bright hue. Attractive aromas of apple blossom, white fruits and floral notes cede to a palate with a green apples flavour and fresh acidity. As far back as 1886, the region was described as producing the best white wines in the Languedoc; before that, in 1618, botanist J B Maniol described the grape as one of the best known. Despite this, it was only recognized as an appellation in 2013! A great food wine, it matches seafood and all sorts of fish dishes; no wonder it has made its way onto many a top restaurant wine list!
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
Picpoul Apple blossom, floral White fruits, green apples, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Croquettes Brandade – salt cod croquettes
ALBERTA
17
8188 $13.00
$78.00
8189 $13.00
$78.00
8190 $15.67
$94.00
8191 $15.67
$94.00
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Vignobles Canet Chardonnay, Special Oak Réserve, IGP Pays d’oc, 2014 Only 30% of the wine was fermented and matured with oak, with the balance in tank, yet the wine is heavily marked by the oak giving it an intensely spicy aroma. On the palate more fruit flavours emerge; limes, stone fruits, almonds, and green apples with a vanilla finish. Floris has worked with Chardonnay grapes from his own vineyards as well as grapes cultivated in the region of Limoux, 30 kilometres away. The vineyards in Limoux are some of the highest in the Languedoc at 300 metres. The vines are planted on limestone and there is a cool westerly breeze so that this is one of the coolest regions of the south. If you like oaked Chardonnay then this is a treat at the price. The wine recently won Gold at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris in February. Well done Floris!
Vignobles Canet Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, Special Oak Réserve, IGP Pays d’oc, 2014 Floris has crafted a wine with intense aromas of coconut, cooked berries and summer pudding. On the palate it is concentrated with medium to full body and lingering flavours of black fruits. The grapes were cultivated in three areas; Minervois, Cabardès to the north of Carcassonne, and the cooler high slopes of Limoux to the south, each contributing to produce a well-balanced wine greater than the sum of its parts. All were harvested at night by machine in order to benefit from the cool air. The grapes underwent a cold pre-fermentation at 7°C and then fermentation controlled at 24°C. The wine was matured in oak for eight months giving it a delicious coconut and vanilla twist.
Château Canet, AOp Minervois, 2014, Blanc White wines in Minervois are less prevalent than reds with just 2% of the total production. Floris produces a limited number of cases from approximately two hectares. White Minervois must be made from a blend of grape varieties including Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne, Macabeu, Bourboulenc, Rolle, Clairette Blanche, and Muscat. The varieties and their relative proportions influence the aromatic flavour and structure of the resulting wine. In this case, Floris blended equal parts of Roussanne and Bourboulenc (from 40 year old vines) with a small proportion (3%) of Muscat in the production for the first time in 2014. Pale in colour, the Château Canet Minervois Blanc 2014 has floral notes and a hint of rose petal with stone fruits. The palate is broad in structure with flavours of lemon and rose oil. Well-balanced, it is long and refreshing. After some skin contact, the grapes were gently pressed and then underwent a massively slow and long fermentation over six months!
Château Canet, AOP Minervois, 2014, Rosé Château Canet Minervois Rosé is produced from the first black grapes harvested early in the season from the more recently planted vineyard plots. It was produced from 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache. The Syrah grapes were directly pressed while the Grenache had some skin contact time in tank, allowing more colour to leach from the skins into the juice. The 2014 has red leafy fruit aromas and berry flavours on the palate. Fermented at low temperature (around 16°C), it was bottled shortly afterwards to capture the fresh fruit style in the bottle.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Chardonnay Spicy oak, lime Green apples, almond, oaky finish, [00] 8° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Roast chicken with root vegetables
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Coconut, cooked berries Concentrated black fruits 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Stir-fry pepper beef ribeye
Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Muscat Floral, roses, wet stone Stone fruits, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Chicken Pasanda curry
Syrah, Grenache Strawberry leaf Red berries, tangy acidity, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Rock shrimp and avocado salad with lemon aïoli and baby greens
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET >>
A spectacular thunder storm 16 kilometres away provided the Château Canet team with an incredible lightshow while harvesting in the middle of the night. Luckily it never reached the vineyards.
8192 $15.67
$94.00
8193 $13.50
$81.00
Château Canet, AOP Minervois, 2014, Rouge Deep plum in colour, the Château Canet Minervois Rouge has lots of appealing dark fruits, ripe black cherries and smoky aromas. The palate is soft and ripe with good concentration and soft, ripe tannins. This is a fine wine produced by Floris under quite unusual conditions during the growing season; cool summer temperatures led to late-ripening. Prior to harvest, Floris and the team spent hours going through each of the vineyards, manually removing leaves to allow air flow and sunshine onto the bunches to fully ripen the grapes. Produced from 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, the grapes were harvested at night then underwent a cool soak. The wine was fermented at 27°C with 15% matured in one year old Vosges oak barrels to add complexity.
Domaine Baquière, La Massia, AOP Corbières, 2013 The Corbières appellation starts at the southern border of the Minervois region stretching southwards and eastwards to the Mediterranean Sea. The terrain is rugged and the climate more extreme. Domaine Baquière is close to the border with Minervois nestling in the western foothills and protected by the Montagne d’Alaric on stony, chalky, clay soils. Young winemaker Frédéric Corpel makes wines from the estate’s 18 hectares vineyard. The poor soils are planted with traditional grape varieties and produce low yields. Domaine Baquière La Massia 2013 was produced from a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah. Both varieties were picked by hand and vinified separately. The wine is quite light in structure with flavours of sour cherries and chewy tannins.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON CHÂTEAU CANET
Syrah, Grenache Black cherries, smoke Dark fruits, cherries 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Smoked and grilled burgers
Grenache, Syrah Sour cherries Red fruits 18° C 2015-2018, M8 D9 Veal stew with zucchini and rice
ALBERTA
19
paul sapin Paul Sapin was established in 1889 by a French wine merchant, the same year the Eiffel Tower was built in Paris. Since that time, the company has expanded from its base in Monsieur Sapin’s back garden “shed”, in the small village of Lancié to La Chapelle de Guinchay. Under the stewardship of Thierry Coulon, the company became closely involved in Southern France, more specifically in the Minervois working with Olivier Mandeville at Domaine Peirière and more recently purchasing its own property at neighbouring Château Blomac.
8196 $10.17
$122.00
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Domaine Peirière Sauvignon Blanc Réserve, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 The South of France is synonymous with sunshine and blue skies. The Sauvignon Blanc grape does best in cool climates so, on the face of it, quality Sauvignon Blanc is not a given in this region. However, it would be an error to dismiss Domaine Peirière’s Sauvignon Blanc. The estate has been in Olivier Mandeville’s family for four hundred years. Sauvignon Blanc is planted on the cooler sites on the estate and benefits from the cool night air due to the proximity of the Montagne Noire. Olivier produces some of the freshest, flavoursome Sauvignon Blanc wines in the region, full of gooseberry, green apples and mineral notes with a succulent mid-palate and lingering finish.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Sauvignon Blanc Mineral, gooseberry Green apples, lime, [01] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Linguine with clams in white wine sauce
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN >>
The Domaine Peirière Sauvignon Blanc vineyard is planted on a plain next to the Aude River, where warm days and cool nights are a key factor for the production of the typical aromas of the grape variety.
8197 $9.92
$119.00
Domaine Peirière Syrah Réserve, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 Domaine Peirière estate consists of 230 hectares planted with a range of varietals. The parcels of Syrah stretch out along the banks of the Canal du Midi, close to the Fontfile lock. Planted on light soils with high mineral content, the vines bask in the glorious sunshine, lapping it up to produce ripe, concentrated grape berries. Deep in colour, the Domaine Peirière Syrah 2014 has aromas of violets and cedar. The palate is soft with good mid-palate fruit, a velvet structure and balanced acidity. Olivier sorts the grapes and makes a wine of two halves; part is traditionally fermented, and for the balance a more Burgundian approach is used, the combination of the two a fine result.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN >>
Syrah Violets, cedar Velvet structure 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Grilled lamb chops with fingerling potatoes
ALBERTA
21
8198 $10.67
$128.00
8199 $14.33
$86.00
8200 8204 $10.08
$121.00
COUPON
8201 8205 $9.58
Domaine Peirière Pinot Noir Réserve, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 Parts of the Domaine Peirière estate are on so-called “cold zones” situated on the plain between the Aude River and the Canal du Midi. The stony, clay, limestone soils and the cool temperatures tempered by the prevailing Tramontane wind make this suitable for Pinot Noir. Relatively pale ruby in colour with herbal, red fruits and floral aromas, Domaine Peirière Pinot Noir 2014 is soft and light on the palate with a moreish cranberry finish. The grapes were harvested, destemmed and crushed followed by fermentation at low temperature and ageing on lees in tank.
Platinum, Domaine Peirière Syrah, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 The best selected Syrah grapes from the very oldest vines on the estate were used to produce Platinum Domaine Peirière Syrah, the top of the range. The concentration and richness on the palate is more reminiscent of iconic Syrah from the Rhône Valley further north. Intense in colour, the wine had a smoky, slightly grassy aroma at the time of tasting; a little shy in coming forward. However, the palate is succulent and well-balanced. It is a wine with some potential for maturation.
Mr. Paul Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014
Pinot Noir Herbal fruits, floral Redcurrants, cranberries 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Herb-roasted turkey with cranberry mustard
Syrah Coal, nutty Rich, concentrated 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Beef daube
Chardonnay
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
Apples, melons, pears
If you listen to some wine experts you will, from time to time, hear gripes about how boring it is to drink Chardonnay; indeed an official ABC (Anything but Chardonnay) group was formed some years ago. The fact of the matter is that Chardonnay produces very palatable wines in a range of styles from modest, simple white wines to some of the world’s finest, most long-lived white wines. For sure, I wouldn’t want to drink Chardonnay and nothing else. Nor would I want to eat the same meal every day. But, it is popular for a reason. Mr. Paul Chardonnay has appealing fruits; melons, apples and pears. It is soft, fresh and well-balanced.
Fresh fruits, crisp finish, [01] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Apple and aged cheddar grilled cheese sandwich
Mr. Paul Merlot, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014
Merlot
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
Berries
Named after Paul Sapin, the French wine merchant who founded the company in southern Burgundy in 1889, the label is a caricature of the man holding a rather large glass of red wine. Berry fruits on the nose lead to a soft, succulent palate with juicy red fruits on the finish; it is light and easy to drink.
Soft, easy 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Charcuterie
$115.00
COUPON
22
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN >>
Thierry Coulon amongst the Syrah and old vines Carignan aged more than 100 years - the vines are tired and the production is small, but they are responsible for the intensity of the Château Blomac wine.
8202 $15.00
$90.00
8203 $11.67
$140.00
1889 Paul Sapin Chardonnay, Héritage, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 A buttery, oaky style of Chardonnay, the wine is bright yellow in colour with spicy aromas of cloves and custard. Rich and smooth on the palate, the acidity keeps it lively with lime, caramel and butterscotch flavours. This could easily be a wine from more noble origins. The grapes were cultivated in two areas; a high valley of the Aude bringing mineral, lime notes and structure, and a warmer area with more Mediterranean influence giving the ripe fruit flavours. Grapes from 40 year old vines were carefully selected and handpicked in the vineyards. After gentle pressing, the juice was left to naturally clarify before fermentation, half in stainless steel tanks, and half in oak barrels. The wine was matured a further six months on fine lees before bottling, producing a wonderfully integrated wine.
Château Blomac, AOP Minervois, 2013 The historical estate of Château Blomac dates back to before the 17th century when it was owned by the Lagrasse Abbey. The estate was purchased in 1786 by Monsieur Jean-Baptiste de Rolland de Trassanel who is responsible for establishing the basis of the estate today. It was purchased by Paul Sapin and has been under Thierry Coulon’s stewardship for several years with the wines made under the supervision of Olivier Mandeville, by his son Nicolas. Produced from a blend of traditional grape varieties, Syrah, Carignan and Grenache, Château Blomac Minervois 2013 has intense blackcurrant and blackberry aromas, a hint of leather and spicy juniper berries. The palate is soft and light to medium-bodied with nice complex notes.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PAUL SAPIN
Chardonnay Cloves, custard Caramel, butterscotch, [01] 6° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Shrimp risotto
Syrah, Carignan, Grenache Blackcurrant, juniper berries, leather Soft, smooth 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Duck confit with lentils
ALBERTA
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LGI Wines Carcassonne
8206 $9.17
$110.00
8207 $9.17
$110.00
24
LGI Wines is a dynamic, young company created in 1999 by Alain Grignon, a lifer and specialist of southern French wines. Alain officially retired as Managing Director, but continues to be heavily involved in winemaking decisions. Based in the medieval city of Carcassonne, LGI Wines is now run by the previous head winemaker Xavier Roger.
Lagarde Blanc, IGP Comté Tolosan, 2014, Sélection du Vigneron In 2014, the harvest in Gascony was good. The Lagarde wines are produced from indigenous grape varieties; Ugni Blanc and Colombard for the white. The Comté Tolosan region is close to Toulouse in the southwest of France and its climate is strongly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees mountains. Relatively high rainfall and cool temperatures produce crisp, aromatic white wines. For the price, you can’t beat this wine. Pale in colour, it has typical gooseberry notes. The palate is light and fruity with crisp acidity. The grapes were harvested and left to macerate with skins before gentle pressing and fermentation at low temperature.
Lagarde Rouge, IGP Pays d’Hérault, 2014, Sélection du Domaine
Ugni Blanc, Colombard Gooseberry Light, fruity, crisp [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Baked ricotta with toasted baguette slices
Carignan, Grenache
This wine is produced from a blend of Carignan and Grenache grapes grown in the Hérault region in the south of France. The Hérault is one of four departments in the Languedoc-Roussillon named after the river which flows through it; it is located between the Montagne Noire and the Mediterranean Sea. Vibrant in colour, it has fresh apples and blackberry wine gum aromas, a soft, juicy palate with dark berries, and blackcurrant flavours. It is a well-made, good value wine, ready for drinking.
Apples, blackberries
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Juicy, blackcurrant 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Pork chops with caramelized onions and cherry tomato jam
The Château Bouisset vineyard located on La Clape, near the historic town of Narbonne, faces the Mediterranean shore.
8208 $11.92
$143.00
8209 $10.25
$123.00
Tortoise Creek Wines, Viognier, “Le Verger”, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 The 2014 Tortoise Creek Wines Viognier is initially quite restrained on the nose; not exuberant, but a definite hint of peaches and fresh lemons. On the palate, the varietal flavours stand out more clearly. Peachy, floral flavours combined with a soft, smooth palate lead to an elegant apricot and lemon finish. This will go nicely with an array of Asian cuisine and lobster.
Tortoise Creek Wines, Carignan, “Vieilles Vignes”, IGP Pays d’Hérault, 2014 Old Carignan vines are cultivated in the beautiful landscape between the Cévennes mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea, basking in the southern French sunshine and vivid blue skies. Thanks to the mountains, the temperature is cool at night. The soil is pebbly with clay and is surrounded by scrubland. After picking, the grapes were de-stemmed, lightly crushed and fermented at around 23°C. The wine was matured for a short time with oak and has dark, brambly aromas with a hint of leather. Soft on the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with juicy red berry fruit flavours and a touch of crème brûlée.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Viognier Peaches, lemon Apricot, soft, smooth, [00] 8° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Chicken Korma served on basmati rice
Carignan Brambles Juicy red berries 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Beef, red wine and black olives stew
ALBERTA
25
Syrah vineyards located in Saint-Chinian where the vines are surrounded by pine trees and garrigue; this traditional house, lost in the Mediterranean landscape, belongs to Domaine de Fontjun.
8210 $11.58
$139.00
8211 $11.58
$139.00
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Tortoise Creek Wines, Shiraz, “Les Petites Mûres”, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 The quality of wines produced in the Languedoc in 2014 is high; the reds are concentrated. The growing season was relatively cool and hence the harvest late by up to two weeks, but the low quantities of grapes produced fully ripened. The Tortoise Creek Wines Shiraz 2014 is rich and concentrated on the palate with restrained dark fruit aromas and fresh blackberry flavours.
Manoir Grignon Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 This wine is produced by and named after Alain Grignon, the founder of LGI Wines. Despite retiring as Managing Director, Alain continues to oversee winemaking. The Manoir Grignon Chardonnay was part fermented with oak, imparting a distinct spicy, clove characteristic which complements the ripe and cooked fruit flavours. The grapes were harvested during the cool of night, and then pressed in a pneumatic press with fermentation at 16°C to 18°C. It is soft and broad on the palate with lemon and a toasty oak finish.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Shiraz Dark fruits Concentrated, blackberries 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Pappardelle with spicy lamb ragù
Chardonnay Apple strudel, spicy Cooked fruits, vanilla, [00] 6° C 2015-2018, M8 D9 Blanquette de veau
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
8212 $11.33
$136.00
8213 $10.50
$126.00
8214 $14.33
$86.00
8215 $15.17
$91.00
Manoir Grignon Cabernet-Syrah, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes were cultivated close to the town of Béziers, one of the warmest areas in Languedoc, approximately 15 kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. Deep plum in colour, the Manoir Grignon Cabernet-Syrah 2014 is deep in colour with a spicy, cedary aroma. The palate is soft with black fruit flavours. Medium-bodied, it ends on a bitter chocolate note. The wine was fermented in traditional concrete tanks with some use of oak.
Domaine de Fontjun, AOP Saint-Chinian, 2014 The appellation of Saint-Chinian takes its name from the village that sits in the center of the region. It produces wines from a blend of grape varieties and on soils varying from pure schist in the north to more clay soils in the south. Domaine de Fontjun falls into the latter category with the domaine based in the picturesque village of Cébazan. It is a blend of Grenache and Syrah with part of the wine undergoing a carbonic maceration using whole, uncrushed grapes at the start of fermentation. The result is a wine with the smells and flavours of outdoor southern France; wild herbs, garrigue and savoury notes. The palate is well-balanced with fine texture and silky tannins. It is perfect for early drinking.
Cuvée Triviaci Merlot Cabernet, Vin de France, 2013, Arnaud Sié A delicious blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2013 Cuvée Triviaci has intense leafy, blackcurrant aromas. The palate is concentrated with good mid-palate weight, structure, and a liquorice and bitter cherry finish. It is named as a tribute to centuries of winemaking in France; cellars were often to be found at crossroads convenient for receiving grapes at harvest time, and for selling and transporting wines. The vineyards are on mainly chalky, clay soils producing low yields for the region, approximately 35 hectolitres per hectare. All grapes were harvested by hand, destemmed, crushed and macerated for an extended five weeks during and after fermentation.
Château Bouisset, Les Bécassines, AOP Côteaux du Languedoc, La Clape, 2014 La Clape was originally an island and was settled by mankind as long ago as 100,000 years. It was part of the last escarpment of the high Pyrenees that was cut off from the mainland. Ancient Greeks planted the first vine on the island and were followed by the Romans. La Clape wineproducers were the first to be granted the right to plant vines which the Senate had reserved for the Roman citizens of Narbonne. Château Bouisset, owned by Christophe Barbier, cultivates vines in this wild landscape on clay slopes facing the sea. Les Bécassines is a blend of Carignan, Syrah and Grenache. Part of the wine was traditionally vinified. Part underwent carbonic maceration with six months barrel ageing for the Carignan and Syrah. Deep in colour, it has savoury, meaty aromas. The palate is structured and wellbalanced with red and black fruit flavours on the finish.
LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON LGI WINES >>
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Smoke, cedar Black fruits, bitter chocolate 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Sausage and bean casserole
Grenache, Syrah Wild herbs, savoury Concentrated, fine texture 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Braised short ribs with mushrooms and vegetables
Merlot, Cabernet Franc Blackcurrant, herbal Liquorice, chocolate 18° C 2015-2018, M8 D9 Beef tenderloin wrapped in mushrooms, truffle oil and prosciutto crudo enveloped in a pastry crust
Carignan, Syrah, Grenache Savoury, meaty Structured, red and black fruits 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Cassoulet
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Provence
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Château Vignelaure Rians-en-Provence American wine critic Robert Parker has described Château Vignelaure as “one of the showpiece properties not only of Provence, but of the whole of France”. The estate is set high up in the hills on a plateau close to the small town of Rians, in the appellation Côteaux d’Aixen-Provence. Somewhat remote from other estates in Provence, its vineyards are planted on a unique terroir. Its potential to produce fine, quality wines was first identified by Georges Brunet from Bordeaux. He caused a stir when, in the 1960s, he was the first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in Provence.
PROVENCE CHÂTEAU VIGNELAURE >>
8216 $18.17
$109.00
8217 $18.83
$113.00
8218 $17.67
$106.00
8219 $26.33
$158.00
8220 $57.67
La Source, Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, Rosé, 2014 Provence is synonymous with rosé wine. These days rosé is produced in most wine regions around the world, to a greater or lesser extent, with styles ranging from verging on colourless to deep, almost red wines and varying degrees of sweetness. However, no other region has made it its speciality like Provence; 88% of Provence’s wine production is dedicated to producing rosé wine. La Source 2014 rosé is a blend of 40% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. The wine is a pale, baby pink colour with winey, strawberry aromas. The palate is soft with medium weight and structure finishing with crisp acidity and pink grapefruit flavours.
La Source, Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, Rouge, 2009 2009 was an excellent year in Bordeaux, the south of France and for Château Vignelaure. A warm, low-yielding year that produced concentrated, rich wines, La Source Rouge 2009 has intense aromas of ripe, cooked fruits, plums, and blackcurrant jam combined with herbal notes. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine, silky texture, but with a good solid backbone and acidity giving it the potential to age further. It has great depth and ends on a smoky, cassis note. The blend consists of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Syrah and 15% Carignan, all from old vines. The wine was aged for 12 months with 50% in oak barrels and 50% in tank.
Le Page, Vignelaure, Cabernet Sauvignon et Merlot, IGP Méditerranée, 2010
Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Strawberry Pink grapefruit, berries, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Swordfish and tomato kebabs with salsa verde mayonnaise
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carignan Plums, blackcurrants, ripe fruits Herbs, cassis, great depth 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Provençal beef stew served on polenta
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Le Page Vignelaure 2010 is an excellent follow on from the 2009 which appeared in last year’s cellar offering. Elegance combined with power, 2010 was an excellent year. The Le Page Vignelaure displays black cherry fruits, some vanilla and great finesse. It is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot with grapes cultivated on 40 year old vines producing low yields and concentrated flavours. The grapes were handpicked and macerated for three weeks during fermentation. The wine was matured for 12 months in French oak barrels and is completely integrated with the wine. Delicious now, it will hold for some years.
Black cherry, hint of smoke
Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2011
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
This is the jewel in the crown, Château Vignelaure’s Grand Vin. In my view, Château Vignelaure 2011 is better than many classed growth Bordeaux châteaux from the same vintage. According to winemaker Philippe Bru, it was the best vintage he had ever experienced at Château Vignelaure. Deep in colour, it has smoky aromas and a concentrated palate with great depth, always retaining its signature elegant structure and fine texture. The best blocks of 50 year old Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah were used yielding just 22 hectolitres per hectare of grapes. An extended time on skins, four weeks, was followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months. This wine will benefit from and merits some cellaring before drinking, but if you really can’t wait (and I usually can’t) you won’t be disappointed!
$173.00 PROVENCE CHÂTEAU VIGNELAURE >>
Soft, smooth, elegant 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Potato gnocchi with duck ragout
Smoke, coal, dark fruits Rich, concentrated 18° C 2015-2025, M6 D8 Rack of lamb Provençal with mustard, thyme and rosemary crust served with roast Mediterranean vegetables and new potatoes
Previous page: The almond tree orchard planted by Georges Brunet in 1969 – flowering occurs in April, but it is not every year that almonds are picked due to the cold climate at Vignelaure.
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8221
$27.67
$166.00
The Grand Vin from Château Vignelaure has great potential to mature. While these wines are delicious young, they develop a complex bouquet while retaining a vibrancy that keeps them alive over the years. Last year we offered a tasting case with six vintages. The offer was so successful and the wines so delicious that we have gone back for more. This year we offer two bottles each of three vintages: 2004, 2006 and 2008.
Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2004 The 2004 is brick ruby in colour; it has an intense, mellow bouquet with cassis, smoke, undergrowth and incense aromas. It is complex with a soft, silky texture, vibrant blackcurrant acidity and a long finish. It still has plenty of years ahead, although at the time of tasting I would have happily drunk this up. The 2004 growing season followed the hottest year on record. During the winter months that followed, the intense summer heat temperatures reverted to normal, but with no rainfall to top up the water table. In order to reduce water stress, spring pruning of the vines was particularly severe limiting production to 16 hectolitres per hectare.
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The underground cellar dug into hard limestone rocks with 300 oak barrels where the Château Vignelaure red wines are ageing.
Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence - Mixed Vintages Case: Two bottles each: 2004, 2006, 2008
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 234
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache Cassis, incense, smoke Undergrowth, complex, blackcurrant 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Pan-fried venison with blackcurrant jus served with celeriac mash
PROVENCE CHÂTEAU VIGNELAURE >>
Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2006 The 2006 is developed with smoky, undergrowth and tarry notes. It is well-balanced with firm tannins, good acidity and a long, spicy flavour. After a dry winter, vines were severely pruned and the earth between the rows ploughed to prevent grass growing and absorbing valuable water. Spring was early with flowering two weeks early. Two storms in July topped up the water table allowing the grapes to ripen under fine conditions.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache Blackcurrant, undergrowth Smoky flavour 18° C 2015-2019, M7 D9 Risotto with wild boar bacon and wild mushrooms
Château Vignelaure, AOC Côteaux d’Aix en Provence, 2008 The 2008 seems to have gone into a closed phase and is quite restrained on the nose with smoky, vanilla notes. The palate is balanced with good mid-palate fruit and fine, silky texture, but needs to mellow and open up to reach its optimum. In 2008, spring was cool and wet bringing an end to the long, dry spell. 2008 was a year which separated the men from the boys or the skilled winemakers from the inexperienced. It required skill in the vineyard and adaptation in the winery.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Smoke, vanilla Plums, silky texture 18° C 2015-2022, M6 D8 Slow-braised rabbit pot pie with roasted pimento and smoked eggplant
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 8204 (See Lot 8200 on page 22) Lot 8205 (See Lot 8201 on page 22)
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 Canet 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