Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I have never visited Chateau de Paraza (a prominent landmark in the eponymous, tiny, canal-side village at the eastern extreme of its appellation) and it had been several years since I tasted one of their wines, but their 2007 Minervois Cuvee Speciale demonstrates that this well-known estate can still turn out a head-turning value. Very ripe blackberry fruit sweetly caresses the palate, with cinnamon, cardamom, juniper, black pepper, and cherry pit bitterness adding interest. For all of its richness (in itself amazing for the price) this finishes with lip-smacking juiciness and an invigorating impression akin to chomping down on the seeds of the blackberries. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Recognized for its concentrated and sultry reds made predominantly of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah, this western Languedoc appellation is also famous for the charming and delicate fortified Vin Doux Naturel called Muscat de St. Jean de Minervois. The dry rosé and white wines of Minervois are also worth seeking out.