Château Simone Palette Rouge | 2019

Belonging to the Rougier family since 1830 Simone’s Mediterranean climate is influenced by encircling pine trees, the nearby Arc River, and a soft altitude topping off at 750 feet. Resurrected after the devastation from phylloxera, many vines surpass one-hundred years (and are re-planted on a vine-to-vine basis). The red blend is identical to the rosé: about 45% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, and 20% Syrah with an accordion of ancient and exotic Provençal grapes. Bottled after 18–24 months of aging in large, old wooden barrels with another year in smaller barrique, it's a wine for those who appreciate the savory, outdoorsy, character of a wine. Well-structured with meaty, but pretty, tannins, the new release (2019) is a wonderful mix of summer truffles, dark pines, forest berries, and winter spice. A cook's delight, pair Simone Rouge with gamey meats like braised oxtail, roast duck, or lamb. ~Allegra A