Chêne Bleu Héloïse 2018
The flagship red wines of Chêne Bleu are named after the most famous pair of lovers in the Middle Ages. Abélard was the theologian and philosopher whose passionate illicit romance with his brilliant disciple Héloïse condemned both to forced separation and tragedy. Their love survived decades of monastic seclusion through passionate and erudite correspondence. Abélard and Héloïse are not the classic “first wine/second wine”. Made with the same attention to detail, they are equal in quality, but very different in style, to reflect the distinct characteristics of the varieties and vineyards. The Chêne Bleu Syrah blend is named Héloïse for its balance of concentration and restraint and its ripe, supple texture. The estates fine Syrahs blend beautifully with the highly perfumed Grenache, but also blossom with the floral notes of high-altitude Roussanne, bringing Héloïse stylistically closer to her cousins in the Northern Rhône. Barrel-aged for 18 months Héloïse has an aromatic nose with notes of coffee, black fruit, truffle, mocha and blueberry. On the palate the wine is full, complex and balanced with pronounced freshness and finesse. A generous and intense wine with great ageing potential, it is ideally suited to be enjoyed with lamb, red meats and roasted vegetables.
