Chêne Bleu

Rhône, France

Abélard, AOC Ventoux — 2016

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  • Introduction

    • WINERY Chene Bleu’s property is nestled in a UNESCO heritagelisted reserve among the diverse flora and fauna at one of the highest elevations in all of Southern Rhone, 2,000 feet above sea level. The remarkable 340-acre estate has functioned as a working vineyard since the Middle Ages. The high-altitude vineyards benefit from warm daytime sun and cool nights allowing a longer, gradual ripening season. The resulting wines embody the aromas and flavor of southern Rhône, together with the finesse and elegance of northern Rhône and the aging potential of the region’s finest AOCs.

      WINE 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.

  • Vineyard Profile

    • Grenache vines are 60 years old, facing north-west at 530m. Syrah vines are 50 years old, facing south-west at 540m. Pruning method: Single and double cordon de Royat with 5-6 shoots per cordon. The soil consists of clay, limestone, and many stones.

    • Appellation: Ventoux AOC
    • Location: Rhône Valley
    • Viticulture: Organic - Ecocert
    • Vine Age: Grenache - over 60 years old; Syrah - 50 years old
    • Soil: Clay-limestone, very stony
    • Exposure: Syrah: Southwest facing; 540 meters (1,771 feet) Grenache: Northwest facing; 530meters (1,739 feet)
  • Vintage Report

    • A year of contrasts – rain, drought, and then more rain! We started the year with wet conditions that delayed bud break and flowering by about 10 days each. The rain also caused some coulure on the grenache, reducing the yield by about 7% compared to last year’s bumper crop. However, a very dry summer allowed the grapes to catch up with their usual cycle, and veraison occurred right on schedule.

  • Vinification

    • The grapes were fully destemmed. The Syrah and Grenache underwent a 30-day maceration period in wooden tanks. Malolactic fermentation occurred in barrels. The wine was aged for 18 months in barrels that were either new or one to two years old, with capacities ranging from 228 to 320 liters.

    • Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels
  • Technical Information

    • Varietal Composition: 80% Grenache Noir, 20% Syrah
    • Alcohol: 14%
    • p H: 3.74
    • RS: <0.5 g/L
  • Tasting Notes

    • The 2016 Abélard exhibits a deep, brilliant garnet color. Aromas of sweet cherries are prominent on the nose, accompanied by hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and mocha. On the palate, it opens with a sweet and spicy profile, featuring fine tannins and freshness. The finish is rich and lengthy.

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Reviews

  • Abélard, AOC Ventoux — 2016 – Wine Spectator – 93 Points

    “An intriguing late-release red, with some lovely signs of evolution -- balsamic, leafy tobacco, forest floor notes -- melding seamlessly with juicy plum sauce and mocha accents. A salty beam of acidity brings energy. Elegant, long and caressing, offering plenty of fleshiness and charm. Drinking beautifully now, with life for the cellar. Delicious.”

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