2015 Weingüt Clemens Busch Vom Roten Schiefer Trocken Riesling, Mosel, Germany
Producing wines that combine both elements of tradition and innovation is a reputation that Clemens Busch has acquired over his years as head of his family’s estate. The Busch family has presided over vineyards in the middle of the Mosel for generations, and soon after taking command, Clemens abandoned the use of herbicides in favor of adopting a biodynamic approach to winemaking. Their steep hillside vineyards contain parcels that lie upon grey, blue, or the rare red slate, (The term “vom roten Schiefer” translates to “from red slate”). The soil imparts aromas of wet stone and chalk into the wine, creating a lovely balance with other floral and white peach notes. Once on the palate, this “Trocken,” or dry, Riesling is light and refreshing, tasting of grapefruit, melon, and soft herbs. Riesling is a favorite of ours for so many dishes, but taste this with a veggie crudite and herbed cheese, or better: sushi!
2012 Château Haut-Sarthes "Terrement" Rouge, Montravel, France
Located just east of Saint Emilion in the Montravel region of France is Daniel Hecquet’s Château Haut-Sarthes. Montravel’s beauty is well known as having inspired the works of famous French writer Montaigne, and resting atop the highest summit the hillside vineyards of Château Haut-Sarthes are pure poetry. Hecquet has a deep respect for the terroir by utilizing organic and sustainable practices both in the vineyards and in the winery. The focus that he places on creating natural and pure wines can be seen in the elegance and complexity of his 2012 “Terrement” Rouge. On the nose, aromas of blackberries and currents rush out of the glass, while notes of allspice and leather glide their way into its bouquet. This is a perfect blend of 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Cabernet Franc, and it definitely should be paired with an aged ribeye steak, or perhaps just paired with another glass for your partner in front of the fireplace.