We get more and more requests in the department for organic or natural wines every day. I always believe that it is important to explain that many of the traditionalists have operated either organically or with a very minimal intervention, natural winemaking approach. Some of these wineries can be available all over the world, and in the case of the Chateau Anthonic(which we are featuring) have been in operation since the late 1700s. They have not changed much since then and do not prioritize a USDA certification which for many wineries is also costly. That being said it can be difficult to find those old world wines still focused on traditional methods since without those certifications they are just tough to identify. We want to showcase a few excellent new wines for us that consider quality the number one priority without straying from tradition.
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Featured Wines:
2017 Labbe Abymes – Savoie, France; $13.99
This was one of my favorite new wines for us in 2018. Brought in to the store around the holidays because it is a perfect dry white wine option to go with Thanksgiving. It plays so well with poultry, herbs and cranberry just to name a few. Domaine Labbe is a tiny 25 acre estate run by siblings Alexandra and Jerome Labbe. They are located just south of Chambery in the Savoie region; the alps of Eastern France neighboring Switzerland. The wine is made from a local varietal to the region, jacquere. - $1.00 Sample
2016 Les Jamelles Pinot Noir – Languedoc, France; $12.99
The wine undergoes a long cold soak and cool slow fermentation. That retains a lot of vibrant, fresh aromatics. Only about 25% of the wine sees oak… Just enough to add a little spice and depth to the final blend. Juicy with flavors of red currant and cherry. A classic earthy note with a slight minty-ness on the nose. Very soft and easy drinking. A Wine Enthusiast “Best Buy” award winner.- $1.00 Sample
2017 Sentinelle de Massiac Minervois – Languedoc, France; $13.99
Chateau Massiac has a long history that dates back to the Roman Empire when this area was colonized by the Romans using the nearby Mediterranan port of Narbonne as an access point. The rich history came to an abrupt end during the French Revolution when the Chateau was burned to the ground. Recently revived by Bernard Boudouresques and his family with about 21.5 hectares of planted vineyards now. As of 2012 the estate became certified organic in both the vineyards and in production.
A more fruit forward blend from Southern France. The wine is made from about two-thirds Syrah and one-third Carignan. Dark cherry, violets, garrigue, wild berries, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and chocolate, Just an unbelievable value. - $1.00 Sample
2014 Chateau Anthonic Moulis-en-Medoc – Bordeaux, France: $19.99 WAS $29.99 SAVE $10!
Established at the end of the 18th century and acquired by the Cardannier family in 1977, Chateau Anthonic is one of the oldest family owned vineyards in Moulis-en-Medoc. Estate is planted with over 75 acres of vineyards, mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The Moulis-en-Medoc release is 82% Merlot and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in oak for a year and a half.
“This is a finely balanced wine. With its tannins so well integrated with the blackberry fruit, it is going to be a juicy while structured wine. The dry core is likely to open up as it develops.” 90pts Wine Enthusiast - $2.00 Sample