Le Pas du Moine, Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire – 2015
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Introduction
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“Le Pas du Moine” is “the path of the monk,” a reference to the footpath leading to an ancient priory on the south-facing slope of Mount Sainte Victoire, the mountain known as the guardian of the spirits of Provence and defining the northern boundary of the appellation.
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Vineyard Profile
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Château Gassier is situated 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from Aix en Provence, at the foot of Mount Sainte Victoire. Its 40 hectares (98.84 acres) benefit from an ideal location in the heart of the Arc Valley, protected by Sainte-Victoire in the north, the Regagnas hills in the south and the Aurélien mountains to the east. The vineyards are at 330 meters (1,082 feet) with a southern exposure.
- Appellation: Sainte-Victoire was acknowledged as an appellation in its own right in 2005. The vineyard area of Sainte-Victoire is viewed as one of the most unspoiled in France. It has been classified as a natural reserve ”Grand Site de France.”
- Cultivation: 100% organic; will be officially certified organic with the 2016 vintage
- Vine Age: Grenache planted in 1982 and 2000; Syrah in 1992 and 2003; Cinsault in 2004; Rolle in 1997 and 1998; Ugni Blanc in 1987
- Soil: Clay and limestone pebbles and sand caused by erosion of Mount Sainte Victoire
- Density: 4,000 vines/hectare (1,619 vines/acre)
- Training: Cordon de Royat (simple and double pruning)
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Vintage Report
- Harvest Date(s): September 3-9 in fine weather
- Yields: 45 hl/ha (3.33 tons/acre)
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Vinification
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Pressing: Cold direct pressing, skin contact during filling of the press
- Fermentation: At a low temperature of 14 C (57.2 F) and then 18 C (64.4 F) at the end of the fermentations
- Aging: In cement cuves for 2.5 to 3 months
- Filtration: Tangential filtration
- Fining: Bentonite fining
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 40% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 10% Cinsault, 10% Rolle, 5% Ugni Blanc
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Tasting Notes
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Pale lychee fruit color; intense nose playing with white floral and exotic fruit notes. In the mouth, the first impression is fresh and round, supported by citrus fruit delicacy (guava and grapefruit), with a lingering finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled to 10-12 C (50-54 F) Amazing as an apéritif, this rosé also matches perfectly with Mediterranean gastronomy, such as ratatouille, and Asian cuisine, such as sushi, spring rolls or stir-fried beef.
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Images
Reviews
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Le Pas du Moine, Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire – 2015 – 92 points – The Tasting Panel
"Raspberry sorbet, guava, blood orange, thyme and spearmint in a substantial medium plus body and almost creamy texture..."
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Le Pas du Moine, Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire – 2015 – 91 points – Vinous
“Very pale pink. Highly expressive red berry, tangerine and nectarine aromas, along with suggestions of pungent flowers and chalky minerals. Silky, pliant and seamless in texture, offering fresh raspberry and lavender pastille flavors…”
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Le Pas du Moine, Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire – 2015 – 90 points – The Wine Advocate
“Beautifully perfumed and expressive … strawberry, framboise, rose petal and passion fruits in a medium-bodied, supple, beautifully textured, charming profile. This has tons of charm and will put a smile on your face over the coming summer months.”
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Le Pas du Moine, Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire – 2015 – 91 points – Wine Enthusiast
“… herbal aroma and a crisp palate that delivers tropical fruits cut by grapefruit … from the privileged Mont Saint-Victoire vineyards … It has a distinctly mineral texture and perfumed acidity. At the end, the wine is bright, tight and crisp.”