Domaine de l ‘Oratoire Cairanne (Côtes du Rhône) Reserve des Seigneurs Rouge 2009

Description

This is possibly the best domaine in the entire Côtes du Rhône Villages area The wines are full. intense and concentrated. surprisingly sophisticated. At less than half the price of a top Châteauneuf this domaine offers splendid value for money. Clive Coates.

This is one of the most highly respected estates in the southern Rhone. Almost every insider speaks of l ™Oratoire Saint Martin. run by Frederic and Francois Alary. as an example of a perfectly managed. impeccably manicured vineyard as well as meticulous winemaking. Robert Parker

Oratoire vineyards have been in the Alary family ‘s hands since the 1600s! It is certified organic vineyard (predominantly between 60 100 years old) and employs biodynamic practices as well. The Domaine is doing everything to produce the finest fruit quality very low crops ( 28hl/ht in 2009). gentle handling of fruit and wine. large. neutral oak for both fermentation and aging have made a significant impact.

Vineyard sites are high up on the hill behind Cairanne (most southern Rhone wines come from the flats) near Rasteau and look out to Gigondas and down at Châteauneuf du Pape. They have a soil profile rich in limestone and clay which lends elegance and complexity to these full bodied reds. 2009 was a spectacular vintage in the Rhone!

Grenache 60%. 30% Mourvèdre. 10% Syrah. One of the Alary family ‘s prestige reds…2009 greatness is assured in the bottle. The wine undergoes pigeage for 12 days and is then aged for 9 months in barrel. bottled without fining or filtration. The Reserve des Seigneurs shows remarkable power. elegance and finesse but decanting this wine is a must to reveal the layers of flavour and complexity. Enjoy this fine red with food. Will reward the cellar

RRP $43