(Wednesday, November 11, 2015) — Few would dispute that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most highly regarded appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley and even fewer would question the status of Château de Beaucastel as not only the region’s top producer but also one of the very best and most celebrated traditional estates in all of France.

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Not only does Beaucastel produce the best wine of the Southern Rhône in the opinion of most, but it is also the longest lived and perhaps the most unique. This is due at least somewhat to its high percentage of Mourvedre (typically around 30% while others rely more heavily on Grenache) and its inclusion of all 13 permitted varietals, along with its organic practices in the vineyards and natural, hands-off approach in the winery. The results are wines of great intensity, structure and tannin with distinctive animal and forest notes which evolve after many years in the cellar into the fabulous complexity for which these wines are widely appreciated and celebrated.

In addition to its flagship Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Beaucastel also produces a second wine, Coudoulet de Beaucastel. Its appellation is just the generic Côtes du Rhone but that is only because its vines lie outside the Châteauneuf-du-Pape boundary. In spite of its lowly appellation, however, its quality is vastly superior to virtually any other Côtes du Rhone and is usually deemed comparable and even superior to some other Châteauneuf-du-Papes. In any event, it offers Beaucastel and Châteauneuf-du-Pape quality for a very reasonable price.

One of the great benefits of being a member of Winetasters is being able to enjoy these types of wines after they have had many years to mature and reach their apogee, and this tasting is no exception, although we will be tasting both older and newer vintages, which will illustrate the two wines and their aging patterns. The wines are:

• Châteauneuf-du-Pape – 1998, 2000, 2006, 2007
• Coudoulet – 1998, 2000

Also included will be two other even more unique wines, which will be apparent once you arrive in the tasting.

As always with our tastings, this event will be strictly non-smoking, and we request your cooperation in not wearing any scented after-shave or perfume. Please don’t drink & drive.
 

Date:  Wednesday, November 11, 2015 North York Memorial Community Hall
Time:  6:30 p.m.
Place:  5110 Yonge St. (under library)  North York Centre Subway
Limit: 90 people
Members: $66.00 each (incl. HST)
Guests: $76 each (incl. HST)

Cancellations accepted up to Friday, November 6, 2015 – David Hutchison (416-690-0281 evenings). No reservations by phone, please. First come first served basis. Non-members may attend at guest rates, but preference will be given to members.