Eric Bonnet's top end Cote du Rhone. This blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Grenache comes from outstanding terroirs just outside the Chateauneuf border in Coudoulet, Champovin and Bois Lauzon. This drinks like "baby Chateauneuf and is quite a serious wine. Amazing QPR here!
Another rare alpine variety from Savoie specialist Philippe Grisard. This Verdesse offers ripe yellow stone fruit aromas and flavors with hints of lemon zest and fresh thyme. It's medium-weight with a certain creaminess on the palate, but its vibrant acidity keeps it fresh and light on its feet. Verdesse was a rather more popular variety in the past, but there are barely more than 25 acres in total planted today. I'm glad to have been able to stash a few bottles away for myself, because it's no longer being imported. If anyone wants to cross another obscure variety off your list, here's a delicious chance! - John Fitter | Addy Bassin's