WINEAUX CLUB: EXPLORER, DECEMBER 2024
The Wineaux Club selections for December 2024 spotlight the Cap de Creus Nature Reserve in Catalonia, Spain (pictured), and Château de Rouanne in Rhône Valley, France (shown below)
Merry December, Explorers!
This month’s selections are perfect for hosting your friends and family this holiday season.
Sparkling rosé from the Rhône Valley, France, is a true expression of finesse and complexity, blending the region's rich winemaking heritage with the vibrant allure of effervescence. Perfect for celebratory toasts, casual brunches, or intimate dinners, this Rhône Valley sparkling rosé is a versatile and elegant choice that elevates every occasion.
Next up is a decadent red from Catalonia, Spain offering a vibrant yet approachable expression of the region’s winemaking artistry, known for its rich history and dynamic terroirs. Medium-bodied with soft, velvety tannins, and spice-laden fruit aromas these wines are crafted to enchant both the seasoned connoisseur and the casual enthusiast.
Sit back, pour a glass, and let the journey unfold.
Cheers!
The Wineaux Club
Below you will find our selection’s histories and regions, expert flavor notes, as well as some mouth-watering pairing recommendations.
Château de Rouanne, Brut Nature, Rhône Valley, France — 2022
2022 — Château de Rouanne, Brut Nature, Rhône Valley, France — Available at Wineaux now
Château de Rouanne is a historic estate with a 12th century medieval castle, situated on a classified Roman site located in the southern Rhône Valley. The name of the estate comes from "Rugius", which is said to be the name of the original Roman owner. The estate totals 177 acres (72 hectares), including 153 acres (62 hectares) of vines. Château de Rouanne was purchased by Louis Barruol, owner and winemaker of Château de Saint Cosme, in May of 2019.
STYLE: SPARKLING ROSÉ
VINTAGE: 2022
VARIETAL: 55% Mourvèdre, 20% Cinsault, 10% Syrah, 10% Marselan, 5% Grenache
AROMAS: Clean, invigorating notes of silex, showcasing limestone soils
MOUTH FEEL: Opens to reveal wild strawberry and fresh thyme
OVERALL: A complex, flavorful, fresh and elegant sparkling rosé
PAIRINGS: Hors d'oeuvres, oysters or a variety of charcuterie and light salads
Anna Espelt, Pla de Gates Negre, Catalonia, spain — 2021
2021 — Anna Espelt, Pla de Gates Negre, Catalunya, España — Available at Wineaux now
Having studied habitat restoration and organic farming, Anna Espelt has always sought to bring her values in line with the farming practices at her family’s large estate of 200 hectares. She has also been pursuing something more personal – Pla de Gates Negre is a project focused on 25 hectares of vineyards collectively called Mas Marés located within the Cap de Creus Nature Reserve of Spain.
STYLE: RED
VINTAGE: 2021
VARIETAL: 100% Lledoner Negre (Grenache Noir)
AROMAS: Vibrant notes of plum, raspberry, hibiscus, nutmeg & cinnamon
MOUTH FEEL: Medium body with fresh acidity and soft, supple, round tannins
OVERALL: Maraschino cherry, fresh herbs, granitic minerality and salinity on the finish
PAIRINGS: Pasta with tomato sauce, game meats like deer and venison
