Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the 2014 Famille Barsalou Château Aumedes Corbieres Rouge Reserve (Languedoc-Roussillon, France) – $15.99 (regularly $21.99).
The old family estate of Château Aumèdes has been producing high quality wines since 1878. More than five generations have succeeded each other in this family owned and ran business fully utilizing the brilliance of traditional grape varieties grown from vines planted on hillsides with diverse soils.
Aumèdes, which takes its name from the Occitan “aumets” or “aumedas” which means elms, is the oldest property of the family Barsalou. The Gallo-Roman remains discovered on the estate testify to the presence of agricultural activity dating back at least two thousand years. The vineyard, planted on a south-facing hillside, extends over 40 hectares of terraced plots between the scrubland and the village of Bizanet.
Our feature this week is a very Mediterranean-style blend of Carignan, Grenache Noir and Syrah produced according to the specifications of the protected designation of origin of Corbières. It offers both a rich aromatic expression and a complex structure. Love the heady floral nose with forest fruits, blackcurrant, blueberry and grilled spices that is followed by a compelling palate of aniseed, red and brambly fruits. Fruity freshness features judiciously and lingers delightfully on the rustic finish. Refined acidity supports a dynamic palate. Pair with slow braised red meats.