F/R – FRANÇOISE ROUMIEUX
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône Valley
Côtes du Rhône
Cótes du Rhone AOC
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
When you open a bottle of F/R Côtes du Rhône, what stands out for this classic category is the depth of savory complexity and dark powerful fruit. From the usual suspects, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre, the compelling aromatics and flavors immediately grab your attention and signal, this is a special wine. Françoise buys a small amount of fruit from friends who have the same vision for sustainable/organic farming that she does.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Female winemaker Françoise Roumieux is the 5th generation at the prestigious Mayard family estate, boasting some very old vines in Châteuneuf-du-pape. This negociant project, under her own name, was started in 2016, utilizing grapes from friends and neighbors who share her passion for respectful environmental farming practices. With native yeast fermentation and longer than average aging, it is a hidden gem to be sure.
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"Le Hurlevent"
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvèdre
Female winemaker Françoise runs the historic Mayard family in Châteaunuef-du-Pape. The “Le Hurlevent” represents a small production (1500 cases) negociant project sourcing from her neighbor. It is a full-bodied wine that is both dense and lively, the dark berry fruits of 40+ year-old vines unfolds on your palate with ripe, wild fruits like raspberry, currant, and cherry, complemented by classic French garrigue notes and savory goodness.
POINTS OF INTEREST
The Mayard family is now certified organic and while this small amount of purchased fruit isn’t certified, Françoise goes out of her way to source from producers in the area who have the same high standards for their vineyards as she does. The Hurlevent is a blend of Grenache (70%), Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre aged in concrete vats to retain the freshness and lively character of the ripe fruits. Native yeast fermentation helps maintain the integrity of the terroir and natural character of the region.
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