Abélard, AOC Ventoux — 2014
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Introduction
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Flagship Grenache Blend named after the famed Philosopher Pierre Abelard to reflect its forceful, brooding intensity and showcase the opulence and concentration of our old-vine Grenache, with some Syrah to add to the complex structure.
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Vineyard Profile
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Pruning Method: Double cordon de Royat, 6 shoots per cordon
- Viticulture: Organic and biodynamic practices, certified BeeFriendly and HVE 3 sustainable viticulture (highest tier). No synthetic treatments, to ensure health of vines and soil
- Vine Age: Grenache - over 60 years old; Syrah - 50 years old
- Soil: Clay and limestone, very stony
- Elevation: Syrah: 540 meters (1,771 feet) Grenache: 530 meters (1,739 feet)
- Exposure: Syrah: Southwest facing Grenache: Northwest facing
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Vinification
- Fermentation: In wooden tanks, with skin maceration for 5 weeks; 100% malolactic
- Barrel Aging: 18 months in mix of old and new French oak from various coopers, primarily 228-liter (60-gallon) barrels with medium and medium-plus toast; plus 12 months in concrete tanks
- Filtration: Unfiltered
- Fining: Unfined
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 85% Grenache Noir, 15% Syrah
- Alcohol: 14%
- TA: 3.14 g/L
- p H: 3.74
- RS: <0.5 g/L
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Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Deep, brilliant garnet
Nose: Plummy with notes of sweet, ripe fruit
Palate: Full-bodied with peppery notes and fine tannins
Finish: Long
- Serving Suggestions: Gamey meats like venison, or beef and lamb, and roasted vegetables. A good match for spicy dishes and salty cheeses. Decant for 2-3 hours, serve at room temperature or cooler.
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Images
Reviews
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Abélard, AOC Ventoux — 2014 – Wine Spectator – 90 Points
“Elegant & complex, with layers of red currant and incense infused with cigar box, cured meat and smoked alder accents. Evolving beautifully, with a salty vein of minerality. Impressive length on the finish, this is marked by an intriguing cumin note.”