Simon here. I'm excited to write my first newsletter for a while. These past months have been a journey -- not unlike the journey of Rose and Arrow Estate, of which I've been a partner for the better part of a decade. We first started the ALIT Pinot Noir project to be a 'second wine' of Rose and Arrow, to highlight what a great-quality Pinot Noir could taste like without a $60 price tag. Now, Rose and Arrow makes some of the top rated Pinot Noirs in the world. In fact, the estate just had a full spread in Wine and Spirits Magazine.
With our ALIT Pinot Noir flying off the shelves, we decided it was time to focus on Chardonnay, and we're delighted to offer some to Wine Friends!
ALIT Chardonnay 2020 ($22)
The ALIT Chardonnay is elegant yet rich, made in a Burgundian style with less oak and more mineral expression. It is sourced from two separate vineyards in the unique rocky, volcanic soils in the Eola-Amity Hills and Chehalem Mountains of Willamette Valley, Oregon. The use of dry farming and native wild yeasts in fermentation helps to preserve the full expression of the grapes. It has white flowers, lemon merengue, and ripe peaches, and a clear blast of citrus on the finish. It is just wondrous with fish or roast chicken, with an elegance that does not overpower the food. We made only 70 cases and so we can only offer 3 bottles per person. Don't miss out!
Our red this week is from one of the most historic estates in the Languedoc region of southern France. Named after the famous painter Pierre Mignard whose descendants have owned the estate since 1642. Mignard was the court painter under Louis XIV, the ‘Sun King’ of France, and is known for his royal portraits.
A sip of this just transports you to the sunny, Mediterranean climate. This is a classic blend of Carignan, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, which fills your glass with bright notes of red cherries, raspberries, eucalyptus and spices. It is approachable yet complex - a perfect companion for a BBQ or some simple appetizers like sausage, cheese and baguette.