Backyard picnicking with good friends goes really well with a little Viognier and Evening Land's Gamay Celebrations. And Syncline is doing some tasty things up in Red Mountain, WA, and heck, it may be the hottest week of the year (I hope!) but we can't get enough Mourvèdre---ever.
I recently described my love for the Mourvèdre grape (and it's difficult pronunciation) to a coworker who replied "Ooo---sounds kindof erotic!" Indeed, the stuff is chalk-full of magical, manly, meaty awesomeness. Syncline is, sadly, totally sold out of their 2009, but if you have an approaching special occasion and are interested in sampling this bewitching grape, here's a quick guide to finding the stuff:
Mourvèdre is a variety of many names, which can get a touch confusing. Remember: Mourvèdre (or Balzac) in France; Montastrell in Spain; Mataró in Australia + Portugal.
Bodacious blends: Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah make for one abfab blend of the classic Rhone varieties, affectionately known as GSM.
From where? Bandol (on the Mediterranean coast of France) gives us kick-ass Mourvèdre, and gorgeous rosés for summer sipping; You're probably safe buying any wine from here or the surrounding Provence region.
We love:
Domain Tempier (France > Provence > Bandol) Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault (Syrah, Carignan in some blends.)
Chateau Salettes (France > Provence > Bandol) Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan.
Bunell Cellars (Washington > Whaluke Slope) 100% Mourvèdre.
Torbreck Cuvee Juveniles (Australia > Barossa Valley) Grenache, Shiraz, Mataró.
Happy hunting!
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