2015 Domaine de L’Edu “Muse” Rose of Cabernet Sauvignon, Vin de France, Loire Valley, France.
Fred Niger’s Domaine de L’Ecu makes some of the finest Muscadet Sevre et Maine there is and he is also crafting some lots of seriously fun exotic wines including amphorae aged white and reds as well as this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon rose. This bright and acidity driven pink is 50% Saignee and 50% direct press giving this tank raised Rose a bit of ying and yang balance of ripe fruit and zesty intensity, it is a harmonious and mineral toned wine with a chalky and stony core showing delicate red berry, watermelon, rose water and sour cherry as well as a hint of caramel, distilled currant and tart spiciness. Domaine de L’Ecu’s Muse, with it’s very risqué label (click on image to make bigger), is a wonderful example of this regions class and age worthiness, as this 2015 is still amazingly youthful, vibrant and austere. I must confess, I almost always shun Rose made from Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot as I usually find them dull, overly fruity or lean/green, so I was thrilled with this wine’s performance, not surprising really considering how good everything is from Domaine de L’Ecu! All organic and biodynamic, Domaine de L’Ecu has really turned up the quality since Fred took over the estate in 2012 and look to get even more interesting with some of his pet projects coming to the market, but don’t overlook his basic Melon de Bourgogne Muscadet Ecu Classic, it’s a amazing oyster companion and one of the best white wines under $20 you can find! Niger’s low sulfur, gentile cellar work and handwork in the vines shows up in the wine’s energy and natural feel, these are soulful terroir wines, I can’t wait to taste his new releases, imported by Floraison Selections, do not miss a chance to sample these exciting and racy Loire wines!
($20 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
