Weekend devoted to Rhone wines from across theworld,
Paso Robles, California, is rich in winegrowing history, with some of the first wine grapes being introduced by the Spanish Conquistadors and Franciscan missionaries in 1797. Strong coastal breezes, numerous microclimates and a sub- soil rich in limestone and marine sedimentary rock, similar to that found in the Rhone regions of France, influence the western slopes.
Every other year, Paso Robles hosts the renowned Hospice du Rhone, highlighting the accomplishments of Rhone wine producers throughout the world. At this year’s Rhone weekend in April, wine enthusiasts were acquainted with Rhone grape varietals through tastings, seminars and evening dinners with winemakers.
Founder and moderator John Alban professed that this year’s event was ” focused on education and serious fun.”
Wine producers from South Africa showed their craftsmanship with wines made from the Cinsault grape, often referred to as Mediterranean Pinot Noir.
A presentation on the wines from Arizona’s high- elevation vineyards caught many people off guard. Vineyard elevations exceeding 3,000 feet produced wines that were attractive and intense, but without weightiness. Their bright minerality and fruitiness underscored the fact that these wines were about themselves and the place.
Rhone rocketeers from Washington’s “Rocks District” allowed a glimpse into their signature style of Syrah. Volcanic deposits of textured cobblestones form the foundation where these vines are grown. Todd Alexander of Force Majeure presented his 2016 SJR Vineyard ” Rocks District” Syrah. Opaque black fruits abound in this wine, with a hint of meatiness and lush dark chocolate textures revealing its immediate and long- term age- ability.
Philippe Guigal, a wine rock star from the Northern Rhone Valley of France, showed why he has achieved greatness during a presentation and tasting described as the “Majesty of Guigal.” Eleven wines were poured from current and older vintages, including the famed 2005 Cote- Rotie La Turque. All were exceedingly exotic and vibrant in structure. While it was obvious Guigal has mastered the wines of Northern Rhone, it may be overshadowed by the fact that he continues to craft some of the most coveted and notable wines in the world.
Afterward, those in attendance took a break for lunch dedicated to rosé. Salmon- colored with an off- dry, caressing personality, these wines are more than seasonal wines and can transcend a poolside atmosphere. They showed their ability to be gastronomic wines that should be served alongside a meal.
Later in the afternoon, all looked forward to the highly touted opening tasting. Winemakers and owners opened their cellar doors to showcase a treasure trove of older, gracefully aged Rhone beauties. These wines exposed finely tapered edges, mature fruits and lovely secondary flavor characteristics that come with age.
French- born winemaker and winery owner Stephan Asseo of L’Aventure Winery poured his perfumed and multidimensional Grenache- dominant 2008 Cote a Cote Proprietary red. Other impressive wines included the L’Aventure Chloe, 2008 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf- du- Pape, 2007 Vina Robles Syrée Petite Sir a hand the blackberry infused 2009 Linne Cal odo Over think er.
Carl Bowker, the winemaker from Caliza Winery, showed a golden touch with his 2007 Estate Syrah and 2012 Reserve Syrah. On the following day, current releases offered a comparison between the qualities of youthful wines and those that have advanced in personality and dimension with age.
Evenings were dedicated to Rhonefocused dinners at local hot spots, allowing consumers to mingle with Rhone dignitaries and their wines.
The Hospice du Rhone demonstrates the a thriving spirit alive in Paso Robles and among the community of Rhone producers from around the world. They remain dedicated to the advancement and appreciation of Rhone wines, which have become the darlings of the consumer.
For information about the spring 2020 Hospice du Rhone, email hdrinfo@hospicedurhone.org.