I started to get into rosé about a year or so ago after a tasting of higher range wines. I discovered the true potential of it being more than just some simple pool-friendly alcohol. I’ve never had any Chinon, whether it be red, white or rosé. However, I do love Cabernet Franc, so I was more than eager to take the first few sips of this bottle. Sébastien Jaulin & Yves Plaisantin grow their vines organically with minimal chemical inputs, aiming towards a more natural wine.
Le Dolmen Chinon Rosé 2018
Produced & bottled by: SARL Jaulin-Plaisantin
Type: Dry Rosé from Western France
Region: AOC Chinon, Loire Valley, France
Aging: N/A
ABV: 13%
Grapes: 100% Cabernet Franc
Appearance: 7/10
As usual with rosé it comes in a clear glass bottle, which is a poor choice regarding protection against UV rays. It is corked which is a nice thought since these kinds of rosé could be aged up to 10 years in good vintages, so it’s effective against evaporation & it allows a micro-oxygenation. The wine itself has a pale salmon colour, almost pinkish beige. A massive crest forms, letting some large drops fall at a slow pace. It gives the impression of a hint of residual sugar & a creamy texture.
Nose: 13/15
The first thing that comes to mind is white button mushrooms with some ripe peaches & grapefruit notes. Then a hint of caramel, red currants, bananas & orange marmalade appears afterward. The yeasty bouquet is not overwhelming only lending some character to the wine. The overall impression is refreshing but with an interesting complexity making it pleasant to drink. I don’t get the usual powerful raspberry & red bell peppers that often comes with Cabernet Franc. It plays in the more delicate end of the grape’s aroma spectrum & I love it.
Mouth: 13/15
On the palate, the same profile is found although I now perceive more characteristic traits of Cabernet Franc. The mushroom evolved into Sourdough bread, the peaches almost seem cooked, the grapefruit is more neutral and the banana & orange have somewhat merged together into sort of tropical syrup. The classic raspberries are present along with some crisp red bell pepper. The flavours blend in a harmonious way. The wine possesses a balance between its tart acidity & a hint of residual sugars. The body is medium with a creamy texture & some fine tannins. The profile is heavier on the palate with warmer flavours & an unctuous mouthfeel.
Finish: 7/10
The finish is rather short with notes of sourdough, apricots & oranges. The lush sensation lasts until the very end.
Overall: 80/100
An interesting wine with a fresh nose & a more intense palate. It plays with different traits of the grape used, but everything stays balanced & harmonious. A nice offering from these small producers.
3-word Description:
Yeasty, fruity & layered.
The Reference
More information @chinon.com
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