Biodynamic. This bohemian Ardèche Domaine has found yet another gear of late, and their Côtes du Rhône Bout d'Zan has become one of the smartest buys in our portfolio. It’s drawn from 35-year-old biodynamically managed vines rooted in a range of highland soils: some galets roulés (rolled alluvial ‘pudding stones’); some sandy clay; and some lower-lying parcels on limestone soils.
The blend is roughly 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah, co-fermented and raised in a mix of Stockinger foudre and cement vats. It’s a joyously perfumed, spicy Rhône red with raspberry, rosemary and sage notes, a medium-bodied, juicy palate and a long, sappy, fragrant and very refreshing close. Do not hesitate.