Anything wine-world king Michael Chapoutier touches turns to deliciousness, no matter what continent he’s on. This wine is no exception. A gold-medal winner at the 2021 Monterey International Wine Competition, where it earned a 93-point rating, the wine was described this way by Wine Insiders: “Complex flavor abounds in 2019 Alexandre Rochette by M. Chapoutier Rouge Pays D’Oc, a red blend crafted in Pays d’Oc vineyards in Southern France. Deep crimson with purple tints, this full-bodied wine opens with powerful aromas. Ripe black fruits and spicy berries are grounded by delicate earthy hints. Lovely red fruits come through on the palate, which is concentrated with good structure and silky tannins. Grapes were sun-ripened on vines on clay-limestone slopes in the large Pays d’Oc area, known for its high-quality terroir. While the region’s viticultural history dates back to Roman times, there are innovative winemakers focusing on sustainability and environmental responsibility. M. Chapoutier is passionate about biodynamic winemaking, and producers behind this wine believe in letting soil express itself with minimal intervention. Led by visionary Michel Chapoutier, the Rhône Valley-based family winery has roots in the region dating back to 1808. M. Chapoutier has been named among “The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands” by Drinks International magazine since the prestigious list was first published in 2011, and it was ranked as the top French brand five times. M. Chapoutier is also known as the first wine producer to feature Braille on its labels. . . . This red pairs perfectly with grilled steak, lamb kebabs, and roasted chicken with honey-roasted vegetables.” The wine should be good at least trough 2025 or 2026. Not at all bad for a quaff I paid less than $9 for.
