Wine Club - September 2017

Tu Vin Plus Aux Soirees – Fabien Jouves (2016)

Winemaker: Fabien Jouves
Soil: High Calcium Clay
Age of Vines: 20 yrs

Grape Variety(s): Cabernet Franc & Malbec
Style: Dry Red
Region: Cahors, France

At just 30 years old, Fabien Jouves is from an old farming family in Causse. He became a winemaker in 2006, creating Mas del Périé on the highest slopes of Cahors. In that region, Malbec (cot) is the king of grape varietals. Located at the junction between Quercy and Cahors, parcel selection was an obvious choice to maximize the different characters of Malbec. This expression of terroir is reinforced by a biodynamic agriculture which respects life, plants, humans and their environment.

You’re probably wondering about the name of this wine. It’s a play on words in French that basically means, “Your wine is not welcome to the party.” This refers to the fact that Cabernet Franc, a grape with old tradition in Cahors, is no longer permitted to be included in wines that are labeled AOC Cahors. If you follow French wine at all, this is one example of the never-ended dispute and frustrations with the labeling/approval authorities there!
The vinification process occurs naturally, without any additives. The grapes are fermented with the whole cluster for about 7 days in cement and then age in old barrels for 6 months before bottling. This is one of my favorite wines we work with. It’s kind of playful and serious at the same time and really just enjoyable to drink anytime.

Sikele Bianco – Tenuta dei Fossi (2015)

Winemaker: Paternó Sisters
Soil: Limestone
Age of Vines: 25 yrs

Grape Variety(s): Grecanico
Style: Dry Orange Wine
Region: Noto, Sicily

Cantina Marilina is an organic wine-making company in the South East of Sicily, Noto. Founded in 2001, it is now run by the Paternó family: the two sisters Marilina and Federica, whose philosophy is based on an absolute respect for the land. Mediterranean climate with a fortunate geographical location and calcareous soils are factors that enhance the quality of the grapes, along with a philosophy oriented reinterpretation of the traditional production methods: historic vineyards, concrete tanks, wilting in the sun. The winery can be found in the surrounding area of Noto, a city which, included in the world heritage list UNESCO is a beating hub for history and culture. Immersed between natural gems of South Eastern Sicily, the faunistic oasis of Vendicari, Marzamemi, Portopalo di Capo Passero and Isola delle Correnti, the zone falls under two denominations of origin: DOC Noto and DOC Eloro. This allows for the production of absolutely unique wines which boast strong characteristics of the area. The Sikele Bianco is made is fermented and aged in cement tanks. The grapes actually are macerated (skins in juice) like a red wine, so this technically is an “orange” wine, which you’ll notice when you pour it in the glass. Really one of the most accessible orange wines in the world and a treat to enjoy, great as we head into fall!