2008 Chateau Pesquie Terrasses

Rhone, France

Chateau Pesquie Terrasses is a gorgeous blend of Grenache and Syrah from the Cotes du Ventoux region east of Avignon. This red wine gem comes from the southern Rhone valley, one of the most beautiful wine regions of the world with its picturesque villages dotting a landscape of rolling hillside vineyards. Paul and Edith Chaudiere chose the name Terrasses in homage to their ancestors who carved terraces into carefully chosen vineyard sites. A perennial favorite of Robert Parker, Pesquie Terrasses has scored 90 points or higher in all but one vintage rated since 1998. The history of Chateau Pesquie is a story about a family passionate about wine in the Ventoux region over three generations. The winery is now run by Alexandre and Frederic Chaudiere. I enjoyed a visit to the chateau nearly a decade ago when my family rented a vacation home in the tiny village of Mormoiron--just one kilometer from the Pesquie estate!

Chateau Pesquie Terrasses is dark ruby red in color with an intense nose of blackberries, black raspberries, garrigue and spice. Full-bodied with soft tannins, the wine is fresh and elegant on the palate. 35% of the vintage was aged for 12 months in oak barrels. Well balanced to enjoy over the next 5-6 years, it is rich and lingering on the finish.

Enjoy Chateau Pesquie Terrasses with lamb chops, daube Provencal, burgers and grilled vegetables.