so, from those photos everyone gets the idea of this producer's domaine. but, there is a lot more to the story. this is another long standing family property which has survived the french system of inheritance. the production is relatively small and from parcels on a variety of soils. i have had a number of wines from this producer, and have enjoyed all of them. the differences are subtle but present, and each wine can hold its own when matched against the others.
tonight's wine is DOMAINE SANTA DUC LES VEILLES VIGNES 2007, COTES DU RHONE. it is entirely special, and is about $15 in the pennsy state stores. it is dark purple, has a nose of tar, petrol, and garrigue, and tastes of red fruit- cherry and plum. the finish has balanced tannins.
i think this is a great wine and rivals many chateauneufs. 2007 was a exceptional year, but this producer consistently makes outstanding wines. i would strongly recommend any wine from santa duc and i hope to visit the property this fall on our next trip to the southern rhone.
the details:
Origin: Collections of old vines (50 years old) consisting mainly of Grenache
Grape varieties: Old Grenache vines 60%, Syrah 20%, Mourvèdre 10%, various others (Cinsault, Cournoise,Carignan) 10%.
Production process: Harvesting with all stalks removed, a long fermentation and controlled temperatures.
Ageing process: Ageing in vats on lees with a small dose of sulphur (SO2) to enhance the fruit and its freshness. Bottling without filtration.
Land: Collections of several soil type: lithosol, marl and red clay soils
www.santaduc.com
so a few weeks ago i mentioned this wine and asked what the derivation of the name was. answer:"the Grand-duc owl which sings, (known as «Canta duc» in Provencal), his name has become over time «Santa Duc»."
great wines from a reliable producer. strongly recommend this one.
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