About Wine features wines not typically on one’s shopping radar; unique wines with a story – of people, place or style. It tells of artisans making reasonably priced wines (under C$50 retail) while demonstrating careful Earth consideration.
2017 Domaine de Fontenille, FTLL Lubéron Red | domainedefontenille.com
About the Backstory: After successful careers in luxury fashion, partners Frédéric Biousse and Guillame Foucher pivoted into historical property restoration, purchasing Domaine de Fontenille (DdF) in 2013. Built in 1638, the partners converted the DdF cháteau into a luxury spa, including Michelin-starred restaurant Le Champ des Lunes. Upgrading winemaking operations as well, the partners elevated the winery into a forward-thinking, earth-friendly dynamo.
About Foresight: To direct the elevation, Biousse and Foucher retained distinguished agronomist Laurence Bergemont. A Provence specialist, Bergemont replanted the estate with a mix of vineyards and vegetable gardens in harmony with the local ecosystem.
About the Region: Making wine for more than 2,000 years, the Lubéron Valley is relatively under-appreciated within French wine space. Situated in central Provence, the Lubéron connects the Alps in the east with the Rhône River Valley to the west, within the boundaries of UNESCO-listed Lubéron Regional Natural Park Reserve. It sits in the shadow of Mont Ventoux, the gruelling climb of the Tour de France’s 12th stage.
A collection of picturesque hamlets and villages, the Lubéron forms the setting of Peter Mayle’s enchanting novel, A Year in Provence.
About Terroir: Featuring slightly steep, stony, clay/limestone slopes, the Lubéron Foothills offer drainage and prime sun exposure to local viticulture. Seventy kms inland, trademark Mistral winds impact the region’s Warm Mediterranean climate; serving to cool, aerate and discourage infestations.
About the Wine: A blend of 70 per cent Grenache Noir and 30 per cent Syrah, FTLL Red pours a pale ruby red; impressing with a bouquet of cloves, dark cherries, and stewed red apples. Light-bodied and smooth in-mouth; flavours of liquorice, ripe plums and mulberries inspire and lead into a finish that’s fresh, clean, and long.
About Pairing: Grilled lamb, baby-back ribs, Portugese Ovelha cheese.
About a Culinary Connection: Trufficulture – the craft of modern truffle farming – was developed in the nearby hamlet of Croagnes in 1808.
About Sustainability: Certified Organic and Biodynamic by Agriculture France.
About Price: C$27
About Alcohol Level: 14% abv
About Availability: CSPC #827908. Check liquorconnect.com (call the listed store too) confirming availability.
