Then There Were Six Rhône Blancs
As promised, here’s the update on the Rhône Valley wine tasting. As the destination was a little hard to find, our glasses were late and we had to improvise a bit, pouring the wines in two flights. When all was said and done, we tasted through eight wines, with one being a 2005 Triennes Viognier from nearby Provence, which reminded me initially of a Japanese restaurant but later softened into tropical fruit and citrus. A 2005 Domaine Vins De Vienne from Saint Peray showed the most oak, being the roundest and creamiest of the bunch. My favorites were a 2005 Domaine de la Becassonne, with its notes of peach, apricot, and white flowers and one that I bought at only $8- La Vielle Ferme, which tasted like peach melba in a glass.
Sadly, two were bad. The 04 E.Guigal was unfortunately corked and the 03 Perrin was cooked, though I’m sure both are lovely when not flawed.
Instead of tropical fruit salsa, I made little French toast sandwiches with turkey, smoked mozzarella, and sliced apple. To top them off was a chutney made by simmering dried apricots, fresh peaches, apple juice, and lemon zest. (Nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger for seasoning.) I forced everyone to try one, and I think they were a hit, picking up the flavors in many of the wines.
….Farley Walker
Rhône Valley wine tasting, 2005 Triennes Viognier, 2005 Domaine Vins De Vienne, 2005 Domaine de la Becassonne, La Vielle Ferme, French toast sandwiches
March 8th, 2007 at 12:15 am
my only question is: when are you coming down to LA to cater a wine tasting at my place?
March 8th, 2007 at 7:28 am
My mother and grandfather are still raving about your chutney and french toast! Thanks for all your effort in making them. I think they were th best thing we ate that night!
March 8th, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Hey Farley,
It is great to find out that you are not only into wine but a foodie as well! We love cooking, but Katie is by far the better chef, hence also a foodie!
3 weeks ’til our Anderson Valley trip! We can’t wait!
March 10th, 2007 at 7:54 am
Winos and foodies unite! Doug, we need to figure out a good time. As for the locals, I’m always game.
Justin & Katie, Have a few at Navarro for me…
April 6th, 2007 at 8:30 am
[...] The weather was ideal, as well. Just the right amount of breeze for going on a pleasant hike– no sign of mountain lions–and then a picnic lunch. I was quite pleased with the split of 2004 E.Guigal Côtes du Rhône blanc which was corked the last time I tried. This time it was lightly floral with tons of fruit, mostly apricots and pears. Very nice with the turkey sandwiches and salad. [...]