From: Sablet, Southern Rhone Valley, France
Varietal: Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah
Taste: Juicy notes of ripe red fruits, such as black cherry, raspberry, and plum, dominate, mingling with fragrant scents of earthy garrigue—a hallmark of the southern Rhône—evoking thyme, rosemary, and lavender. Subtle hints of dried herbs de Provence, freshly cracked pepper, and a touch of forest floor lend a savory complexity, while whispers of crushed violets and smoky minerality add further intrigue.
The wine opens on the palate with a full-bodied and generous attack, delivering velvety notes of strawberry compote and dark cherry with blackberry, cassis, and a touch of black olive tapenade. The tannins are soft yet structured, providing a polished framework that adds balance and a seamless texture to the wine.
Pairing: Try a Lamb Tagine with Dried Fruits and Almonds, where the wine’s ripe red fruit notes and earthy garrigue perfectly complement this Moroccan classic's sweet and savory flavors. The tender lamb melds seamlessly with the soft tannins, while the herbs and spices echo the wine’s herbal nuances. Another excellent choice is Persian Kebab Koobideh with Saffron Rice, where the smoky, spiced flavors of the kebab enhance the wine’s herbal undertones, and the aromatic saffron rice balances its minerality. For a vegetarian option, consider Miso-Glazed Eggplant, a Japanese-inspired dish whose umami-rich miso and caramelized sweetness harmonize beautifully with the wine’s vibrant fruit and earthy complexity.
For the American holiday fair, consider side options that highlight the wine's richness and balance. Sweet Potato Casserole with Candied Pecans pairs wonderfully with the wine, as its ripe fruit and subtle spice offset the dish's sweetness, while the earthy undertones complement the caramelized pecans. Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce is another excellent match; the wine’s earthy garrigue notes enhance the mushrooms and fresh green beans, creating a savory synergy. Or try a Cranberry and Walnut Wild Rice Pilaf makes a vibrant pairing, with the bright cranberry flavors echoing the wine’s red berry notes and the nutty, earthy rice complementing its mineral character.
Wild Rice and Berries With Popped Rice
By Sean Sherman
About: Domaine Chamfort is a distinguished winery situated in the southern Rhône Valley of France, encompassing approximately 27 hectares of vineyards across several appellations, including Vacqueyras, Rasteau, and the Côtes du Rhône Villages of Sablet and Séguret. The estate is at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, a striking limestone mountain range that significantly influences the region's terroir.
In 2010, Vasco Perdigao, a passionate winemaker of Portuguese descent, acquired the estate. Before this, Perdigao honed his viticultural skills in the northern Côtes-du-Rhône, working in the steep vineyards that characterize that area. His decision to settle in the southern Rhône was driven by a desire to craft wines that authentically express the region's diverse terroirs.
