domaine piquemal romain rose-cotes catalanes i.g.p. estate bottled (vintage 2014, red)

Country: France  Region: Roussillon A.O.C., South France  Grapes: Syrah, Merlot, Black Grenache 

With vineyards that border Spain, Domaine Piquemal covers the eastern foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains. Formerly the Vin de Pays des Cotes Catalanese denomination, as of 2009 that Vin de Pays category was replaced by French wine law with the Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) classification.

Domaine Piquemal is managed by third generation Marie-Pierre Piquemal, one of the more well-known winegrowers from the region. The Estate consists of 125 acres, employing sustainable farming methods. The lively pink shade comes from the recipe of 40% Syrah, 40% Black Grenache and 20% Merlot, all Estate grown on chalky-clay soils.

We think you’ll appreciate the delightfully floral nose with subtle aromas of red fruits. In the mouth, it is characterized by delicious fruit flavors with a very pleasant aftertaste.

This is the perfect summer wine and can be used as an aperitif or enjoyed with Asian dishes, Mexican fare, all kinds of fish dishes, as well as light meats. Serve at about 45°F for optimum taste.

Domaine Piquemal Romain Rose Côtes Catalanes I.G.P.:

MERLOT GRAPES — Producing wines soft in fruit, grand in color, and rich in flavor, Merlot grapes are invaluable in fruity lusciousness and velvet quality.  Merlot grapes are key to wines that are fresh flavored and vibrant. France is home to some of the finest Merlot grapes grown worldwide.

GRENACHE — Used to make wines that are rich, warm and alcoholic. Grenache grapes are often-times components of blended recipes, as in this month’s selection, which uses the black variety of this red fruit.

SYRAH — Blessed with aromas of fresh black and blue fruits, the Syrah grape makes a nectar that’s big, rich and tannic — a virtual fruit showcase in a bottle. Scholars believe this fruit dates back to 600 BC.