Wines from Pub Klemo – Reds from Southwest France and Two Surprises

The October wine tasting at Pub Klemo focused on red wines from Southwest France. Unfortunately, the experience was not remarkable, partly because two of the six featured bottles were unavailable. However, this provided an opportunity to sample two glasses from the parallel tasting of atypical Grüner Veltliners, one of which was truly impressive. Here’s a breakdown:

Reds from Southwest France – A Bit Underwhelming

Bloc B763 2020 by Mas del Périé – Fabien Jouves

A somewhat uninspiring wine with raspberry, cherry, and cranberry juice notes. The palate offered a fresh, light body with silky tannins, but it was more of an unremarkable aperitif. The acidity was excellent, but it leaned too heavily into a predictable biodynamic profile.

Cuvée Charles de Batz Madiran 2016 by Domaine Berthoumieu

A step up in quality. The nose revealed pine needles, thyme, and dark chocolate. On the palate, it had good freshness, firm tannins, and flavors of milk chocolate, finishing with notes of juniper berries. While intriguing, this wine warrants a second tasting to fully understand its depth.

Limoux 2019 by Domaine de Baron’arques

A dense, complex wine with kirsch, fresh plum, tapenade, and hints of aged wood. Chunky tannins filled the mouth, balanced by plum freshness and acetone-like aromatic notes. It had excellent acidity and a chewy body while remaining light. The finish featured coffee and red currant. An atypical but well-defined wine.

Pèlroge 2020 by Domaine de L’Astré

Another standout. Though natural, it maintained stability and complexity. Aromas of tapenade, scorched earth, and blackberries led to vibrant cherry flavors on the palate, with gritty tannins and strong acidity. It opened effortlessly, balancing fruit with structure and complexity. The finish showcased concentrated red cherry notes.

Atypical Grüner Veltliners

The selection of atypical Grüner Veltliners proved more satisfying. The first wine was simple yet enjoyable, consistent with others from the same producer.

Mira Brunn 2022 by Lichtenberger & González

The nose offered nettle, wood, white pepper, and a matchstick struck. The palate followed with acacia flowers and pear juice, complemented by a silky texture with vibrant tension. The finish highlighted acacia honey and a savory touch. While not groundbreaking, it delivered its message effectively.

V.D.N Grüner Veltliner 2021 by Domäne Wachau – The Highlight

This fortified Grüner Veltliner stole the show. It featured notes of honey, apple, and fortified characteristics. The palate was sweet yet lively, with a viscous yet fresh texture. Milk chocolate, spices, orange peel, and yellow flowers intertwined beautifully, ending with a savory finish and hints of blue flowers. Its sinusoidal acidity made for an exhilarating finale. A stunning, complex wine.

Best Wine of the Tasting: V.D.N Grüner Veltliner 2021 by Domäne Wachau

Another surprise, similar to the V.D.N. Grüner Veltliner from Domäne Wachau, was the vermouth by Silvio Carta tasted at Selezione Italia.