Today’s Story: Triennes
Triennes is a wine estate established in 1989 in Provence, France by Burgundy legends Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac and Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. Given their prowess in Burgundy, the duo became convinced that great wines of incredible quality could also be produced in the south of France when focus is put on the vineyards first and foremost. After they purchased their estate, Triennes underwent a massive replanting program to ensure the healthiest of vineyards, with vines and rootstocks specifically adapted to the local climate and microclimates. The vineyards are farmed as naturally as possible, with Ecocert organic certification following a transition that began in 2008.
As far as the Triennes wine portfolio goes, they produce three main wines of Saint Auguste Rouge (Syrah, Cabernet sauvignon, and Merlot), Viognier Sainte Fleur (Viognier), and a rosé (Cinsault blended with Grenache, Syrah, and Merlot). They also produce a Merlot, Les Auréliens Blanc (Chardonnay, Viognier, Vermentino, Ugni Blanc, and Grenache Blanc), and Les Auréliens Rouge (Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon). I previously reviewed their 2020 Rosé.
Today’s Wine: 2017 Saint-Auguste Rouge
55% Syrah, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon; 13.5% ABV
The 2017 Saint-Auguste Rouge is deep ruby in color and completely opaque. I decanted this for about an hour which seemed about right at this stage. The aromas are of medium (+) intensity, with the nose showcasing surprisingly complex aromas of blackberry, black cherry, cassis, plum, violet, scorched earth, crushed rock, nutmeg, and clove. Meanwhile the flavors are also of medium (+) intensity and the palate displays notes of black cherry, blueberry, spiced plum, licorice, dried tobacco, cracked pepper, a hint of smoke, and clove. This dry red is medium-bodied with medium acidity, medium (+) but refined tannins, medium alcohol, and a medium (+) length finish.
Price: $18. I think this is an incredible value wine. For the price, it offers great depth, balance, and length while coming off rather elegant (at least partially due to aging in old Domaine Dujac barrels I imagine). Like their Rosé I reviewed previously, I suggest giving this a try.
JB's Wine Talk 