Château Jouclary Cabardes "Tradition" 2023

Alcohol: 14.1%

Grape(s): Syrah, Grenache, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Localization: Languedoc, France

Tasting Notes: The Chateau de Jouclary vineyard is planted with four of the sanctioned varieties: Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc are the largest components and provide the backbone of the wine, while the old-vine Grenache and Syrah from the stony upper hillside contribute ripe flavors and warmth on the palate. The wine undergoes an extended fermentation process in lined cement vats. It then rests in vats for 12 months and undergoes several rackings before bottling.

Notes:  Cabardès is where the influence of the Mediterranean climate and that of the Atlantic meet, and the appellation combines Bordeaux grape varieties with Syrah and Grenache from the south. Each grape variety was picked and vinified separately when fully ripe, with extended 30-day maceration and no oak use.

Food pairing: A great table wine with just about any meal during the week, it is also a home run with cheeseburgers. Also with T-bone steaks with shallot reduction

The Domain: Château Jouclary is run by Robert and Pascal Gianesini in Cabardès, an appellation on the southern slopes of Montagne Noir just outside the medieval, walled city of Carcassonne. The Cabardès appellation is a mix of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, both in terms of climate, but also of grape varietals, where a minimum of 40% of the blend must be "Atlantic" grapes (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or Franc) and 40% "Mediterranean" grapes (Syrah or Grenache).