2011 Bésoleil

Grenache

Regular price $54.00
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2011 is the first vintage we were able to introduce another southern Rhone red variety into our Bésoleil blend. The little known Counoise had recently been planted in Washington and we had experimented with it before, but it 2011 it came into its own. It’s fragrant, generous, and earthy, contributing nuance to both aroma and flavor and taking us closer to our Chateauneuf du Pape model. It’s similarly colored to Grenache, which it slightly replaces in the final blend, but has more earth, spice, and structure, helping Bésoleil take on more weight and authority.

The wine reflects that influence while retaining the essence of its previous vintages. Vibrant ruby with hints of blue color, opens to an intense southern Rhone character. Black raspberry, smoke, roasted dried herbs, black pepper, and floral notes of lavender and rose petals all play their aromatic role. The Counoise adds a note of garrigue, that exotic aroma of the dried, shrubby plants of coastal Mediterranean vineyards. A silky entry leads to a supple mid-palate and a structured finish, reflecting the overall cooler vintage. Flavors are ripe cherry, creamy red licorice, and cola, with a spice cabinet backup. There’s vitality and weight, with a structure that dances and will certainly reward cellaring.

Wine Specifications

  • Vintage: 2011
  • Varietal: Grenache
  • Alcohol: 14.0%
  • Region: Washington
2011 Bésoleil

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