2015 Chateau Simone - Palette Rouge (750ml)

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The terroir of Château Simone merits mention. The Domaine lies in the Palette Appellation, a small region Southwest of Aix-en-Provence. The vineyards are North facing resulting in  uniquely refreshing wines. Surrounding the plot is an ancient pine forest that lends a particular character to the grapes. These vines are ancient; their age extends to 130 years, and the proprietor believes these to be some of France’s oldest vines. The encépagement used for the Rouge consists of Cinsault, Syrah, Carignan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Castet, Manosquin, Théoulier, Tibouren, Picpoul Noir and Muscat de Hambourg. A true field blend grown and harvested together. Simone is not a wine dominated by fruit, instead fine aromas of ripe fruit and a silky palate are the stars here. The aromas reveal a resin-like influence that brings you back to pine encircled Palette. These factors result in a sui generis wine - one that can’t be copied and is even harder to explain.

The human hands are important here, less for their influence and more for their positive non-interventionism. The labeled castle was built in the 16th century by the monks of Grands Carmes d'Aix. The Rougier family has owned Château Simone for many generations, and in their hands the Domaine has maintained a formula of bare-minimal intervention. Hand harvesting, old barrels, an ancient basket press, and plenty of bottle rest. Families with this sort of commitment are declining in the world of wine. The importer is Neal Rosenthal, a devotee of artisanal products. He understands that pleasure comes from the relationship and preservation of places like Château Simone and not through the crafting of new fashions. 

Far exceeding any preconceived aging track, these wines can be enjoyed for decades. They slowly reveal a singular seduction without parallel. From spiced squab at Jean-Georges to Pot-au-Feu on your kitchen table, Simone’s Rouge is an incredibly versatile wine. The red of Château Simone is a wine of true distinction and represent a vinous engagement that can’t be replicated. These wines deserve a place on your dinner table or a place in your cellar. - Rory Pugh