A sleeper of the vintage, the 2011 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Beaumes de Venise Suzon (another blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah) is a full-bodied, rich, fruity wine that was aged in tank (80%) and barrel (20% of the Syrah). Its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by abundant notes of cassis, blackberries, charcoal and camphor. Drink this beauty over the next 5-6 years.
(Not yet released)
As I wrote last year, Patrick Lesec seems to be narrowing his portfolio of southern Rhone wines, focusing primarily on Cotes du Rhones, Chateauneuf du Papes and Gigondas, three areas where he excels in fashioning very good to outstanding cuvees that he sells at realistic prices.
Importer: Chemin des Vins, Sherborn, MA; tel. (508) 545-1532, who distributes to wholesalers in 20 different states. Readers are advised to call them for availability in their region.