Description

Grape varieties: Syrah (70-80%), Grenache (20-30%)

Age of vines: 50+ years old

Farming: Certified organic (ECOCERT) with biodynamic practices

Soils: Loamy gray clay, red clay

Fermentation: Hand harvested, destemmed, and crushed, natural yeast fermentation in tank, 21-day maceration

Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels (50% new)

Additional Information: Quintessence Rouge was first made in 1990 by Paul Chaudière under the urging of his new American importer, Eric Solomon, who loved the character of Syrah he tasted at Château Pesquié. At that time, this region was considered a backwater of the Rhône, only capable of producing cheap, bulk wine. However, largely due to the efforts of Paul and now his sons Alex and Fred, the Ventoux s reputation has never been greater, and Quintessence remains one of the benchmark wines of the region and still represents a tremendous value. Quintessence is a blend of primarily Syrah with a small proportion of Grenache (~20%) – all from 50+-year-old vines planted at an elevation of 250-350m.

90 Points from Wine Specator
An elegant, floral-edged version, with charming cherry and plum purée flavors lined with subtle tea and garrigue notes. The silky, fresh finish is sneaky and long. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2023. 8,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported. — JM