I can’t wait to try out more of Carol Shelton’s wines. Based on the 2015 Coquille Blanc, I’d say she knows her stuff. The winery is most known for their Zinfandel, but apparently the winemaker has a bit of a passion for Rhone-style whites. What exactly does that mean? In a nutshell, that the wine is a blend of grapes typically used in the Rhone wine region of France, such as Viognier, Roussane, Marsanne, and Grenache Blanc. Our taste-testers overwhelmingly guessed that it was a Chardonnay, but knew there was something different that they just couldn’t put their finger on. Even our non-Chardonnay lovers were intrigued… perhaps because there is not a drop of Chardonnay in it?
Each grape used in a Rhone-style white adds a very important element of flavor and structure to the wine. Viognier contributes a creaminess and rich intensity, Roussane provides an herbal and earthy note, Marsanne provides structure and roundness, and Grenache imparts a minerality helping to keep it balanced. What you will find, above all, is a bright floral, multidimensional wine bursting with ripe peaches, almonds, burnt orange and honeysuckle. It’s a great pick for this time of year, when the air is feeling crisper, and you are searching for a white with a little more body and structure. In fact, this style of wine is often paired interchangeably with light-bodied reds, making it a perfect choice for late-summer/early-fall fare.
Pleasant companion for: Spicy food, shellfish, rich fish, soft and young cheeses, pork, poultry, earthy vegetables.
Try with our Tomato & Fig Salad.
750ml – $15.99 @ Utah DABC Stores
Producer……..Carol Shelton Wines
Vintage………..2015
Region…………Paso Robles, California
Grapes………..40% Grenache Blanc, 30% Roussanne, 23% Viognier & 7% Marsanne
ABV…………….13.2%
Type……………White
