Hidden Gem - Chateau des Karantes - La Clape

Chateau des Karantes (AOP Languedoc, La Clape) is tucked away in park setting, very close to the sea and not far from Narbonne. The topography is interesting as it is set along a rugged escarpment. They have gites to rent if anyone wants to stay in the vineyard. Stunning views of the vineyards and the sea. Equally lovely wines.

Below are my suggestions of for Karantes QPR wines. Watch for them across the US (as they have a great agent) and at SAQ, none have been purchased by the LCBO yet - more's the pity.

Bergerie Rosé - Mouvedre, Grenache, Syrah 7.80 E

This Rosé is a beaut! Red currant, citrus, herbal and slightly savoury.
http://www.karantes.com/nos_vins/bergerie_rose.html

2010 Chateau des Karantes Blanc - Blend of Bourboulenc, Grenanche Blanc, Roussanne, Vermentino -13E

Very fresh, white peach with delicate sage.
http://www.karantes.com/nos_vins/chateau_des_karantes_blanc.html

2005 Chateau des Karantes Rouge - Syrah Grenache, Mourvedre - 15E

Ripe black fruit. Dusty garrigue to add savouriness. Lovely!

http://www.karantes.com/nos_vins/chateau_des_karantes_rouge_2005.html

2009 Chateau des Karantes Rouge - Syrah Grenache, Mourvedre - 15E
Cherries, black fruit, pepper - tannins youthful but will age beautifully.
http://www.karantes.com/nos_vins/chateau_des_karantes_rouge_2009.html

2008 at SAQ (Quebec)

http://www.saq.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/GeneralContentView?storeId=10001&catalogId=10001&page=/nh/accueil&langId=-2

Vin de Liqueur - Granache Noir - 17.00 E

Beautiful sweet wine with excellent acid balance to give a long finish. Aromas of cocoa, cassis and prune. http://www.karantes.com/nos_vins/vin_de_liqueur.html

Yes, you can get a decent bottle of wine for under $10.00

October marked a year of my blog. For years I have been tasting and making notes but sharing it was a big step for me. It seemed odd to think anyone, beyond friends and colleagues, would want to hear what I had to say about wine, but I loved the idea of sharing. Anyway, I have had a great time and made connections with incredible people so I am very pleased I made the leap.

In the spirit of this I will go back to the root of the blog, serious QPR wine. Great to bring to or put out at upcoming Holiday parties.

FARNESE MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO - 2009, ITALY - $9.85
Spice & blackberry aromas. Plum, spice and fruity flavours on the palate with firm tannin backbone. Great value for the price

http://www.lcbo.com/lcbo-ear/lcbo/product/details.do?language=EN&itemNumber=612788

http://www.farnesevini.it/eng/prodotti.asp?id=vini