C293-NT: The Rhône Valley, Champagne & Chablis

CELLAR ORDER FEB 22 - MAR 28, 2022

C

THE RHÔNE VALLEY, CHAMPAGNE, & CHABLIS RHÔNE AT ITS BEST

Carole Doyard from Champagne Doyard-Mahé, a 4th-generation winemaker in Champagne

OPIMIAN.CA

NT 293

A SYMPHONY FO lot 3254

Symphonie, AOP Côtes du Rhône, Maison Christophe Pichon, 2020 SYRAH, GRENACHE Domaine Christophe Pichon at Chavanay in the northern Rhône has 23 hectares of vines across prestigious Appellations including Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu. His Symphonie Côte du Rhône is a full-bodied wine with restrained grassy and incense aromas complemented by green herbs and almond blossom. It is structured with good mid-palate fruits, red and bitter cherry flavours and vanilla which remain on the palate. Grapes were picked by hand with the wine matured in barrel for 10 months.

Incense, green herbs, almond blossom

Red cherries, vanilla

2023-2028, M6 D7

18°C

14.5%

Grilled lamb chops with rosemary

OR THE SENSES

DELIVERY SUMMER 2022

$32/750 ml $192/Case of 6

EDITORIAL

France Remains at the Top of the Wine World Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Managing Directors

When we made the Rhône a lead region for the first time last year, we had a hunch that you might embrace it. Boy, did you ever! C283 became the most popular Cellar in Opimian history.

OPIMIAN SUGGESTS.................................................................................. P5 COUPS DE COEUR....................................................................................... P7 CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAYÉ............................................................. P8 NEW CHAMPAGNE DIDIER DUCLOS............................................P12 LAMBLIN ET FILS......................................................................................... P14 SOUTHERN RHÔNE................................................................................... P18 Domaine de Mermès.................................................................................P19 Vignerons Ardéchois................................................................................P22 Château Saint-Bénezet.......................................................................... P24 Château Bellefontaine.............................................................................P26 Domaine Caveau & Millas ....................................................................P27 TOP VALUE WINES................................................................................... P28 Domaine des Romarins......................................................................... P30 Domaine Saint-Pierre...............................................................................P31 Domaine Martin...........................................................................................P32 Domaine des 3 Lys.....................................................................................P36 Domaine des Fontnobles......................................................................P37 Château de Montmirail.......................................................................... P38 Domaine de Piéblanc..............................................................................P39 Domaine la Pierre du Coq....................................................................P40 Château MontPlaisir...................................................................................P41 Château La Genestière............................................................................P42 CELLAR UP!....................................................................................................P44 Domaine Berthet-Rayne ..................................................................... P45 NORTHERN RHÔNE................................................................................. P46 Domaine du Murinais..............................................................................P47 Domaine des Remizières..................................................................... P49 Domaine Pichon......................................................................................... P50 PRÀBAN NA LINNE....................................................................................P52

The popular niches of Champagne and Chablis round out this Cellar perfectly to provide a range of iconic, top-quality red, white and sparkling wines. We haven't forgotten rosé or spirits either for those of you who like a little of everything.

Our perennial, energetic Champagne maker, Carole Doyard returns along with long-time partners Lamblin Fils with their Chablis. They are joined by a wonderful mix of winemakers new and old to Canada and Opimian. We have Bernard Perrin to thank for such a diverse offering. He finds small wineries, hidden gems, which, without his assistance, wouldn't even consider sending their wines to Canada. Bernard, along with our Masters of Wine and the Procurement Team, provide Opimian Members from coast to coast with an exceptionnally unique wine list. It's like having access to the cellars of the best restaurants in the world from the comfort of your home.

On March 8th, as the world celebrates International Women's Day, Opimian would like to honour the dozens of women who share their joy of wine with us. Women abound in every aspect of our Club. We thank our Chair of the Board of Directors, Carol Fitzwilliam, the many women on our capable staff, and the owners and winemakers of our partners around the world, including Château Bellefontaine, Château St. Bénezet and Domaine des Remizières.

Don't miss our Featured Wine in this Cellar. Domaine Pichon's Côtes du Rhône Symphonie is just that. A delicious Syrah with a symphony of aromas and tastes that only pure skill and passion can produce.

At press time, the plan is for an Opimian Wine Tour of France that includes a visit to Carole Doyard in Champagne as well as several vineyards in the Rhône. Initial interest in the trip was overwhelming and, COVID permitting, this popular part of Membership will return. Vive la France!

COLLECTOR’S CORNER WINE........................................................ P54 NEW ODIN'S SPIRIT.................................................................................P55

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CELLAR 293 — EDITORIAL

Greg and Michael

OPIMIAN SUGGESTS OUR PICKS FOR THIS CELLAR

EVENTS ADVISOR

ANAÏS PHILIPPE

As a Canadian who was born and raised in France, Anaïs has a soft spot for French wine: Champagne and Bourgogne Pinot Noir are at the top of the list. Since coming to Opimian, she has completed the first stage of WSET training and her palate has begun to diversify.

LES HAUTS, AOP BEAUMES DE VENISE, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2020, LOT 3236, P39

DM EMPREINTE, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU, LOT 3192, P9

DOMAINE DES ROMARINS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2020, LOTS 3221 & 3222, P30

CHABLIS 1ER CRU VAILLON & FOURCHAUME, ORGANIC, LOT 3207, P15

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES CHUSCLAN, 2020, LOT 3272, WEB EXCLUSIVE

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, AOP SAINT-JOSEPH, 2020, LOT 3251, P49

MANAGING DIRECTOR

GREG RINEHART

Greg's wine style gravitates towards less serious styled rosés and whites. He believes that all events should start with a glass of bubbly! However, when done right, there is no better red grape for producing lighterbodied wines of elegance and complexity than Pinot Noir.

— CELLAR 293 OPIMIAN SUGGESTS

5

MASTER PIECE

Embracing Diversity Jane Masters MW is Opimian’s Master of Wine

‘Variety's the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavour.’ wrote English poet William Cowper (1731–1800). Wine is naturally diverse. This is what makes it fascinating – even though the choice can sometimes be overwhelming.

Wine grapes are generally cultivated between 30- and 50-degrees latitude on either side of the equator. There are a multitude of soils, climate conditions, altitudes and exposures which affect which varieties are best suited to a given location.

There are over 10,000 grape varieties in the world, even if many of the world’s most popular wines are based on far fewer. A lot of research is currently focussed on lesserknown grape varieties to combat climate change. There are also many thousands of grape growers and winemakers around the world. France alone has approximately 110,000. All of these factors have an impact on flavour and style, creating a diverse range of wines from which to choose.

Diversity has long been important in making top wines.

Blending is an important stage in wine making that should result in higher quality, more interesting complex wines than the individual components. Most Bordeaux wines are a blend of grape varieties and barrels with proportions varying from vintage to vintage in the top châteaux. The final assemblage is a function not of what nature has yielded but on what creates balance and harmony. A mix of vine varieties that bud, flower and ripen at different times also constitutes a form of insurance that counters weather anomalies during the growing season, providing at least some economic security.

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CELLAR 293 — MASTER PIECE

Blending is at the heart of non-vintage Champagne production.

After the first tank fermentation, Champagne Cellar Masters spend considerable time and effort into blending across grape varieties, crus and vintages to create the “cuvée”. Even in regions producing wines from a single variety (think Syrah in the Northern Rhône or Pinot Noir in Burgundy), many of the most complex wines are produced from a mix of clones of that variety. Clonal selection identifies the best clones in terms of flavour and disease resistance, but genetic variety brings depth to a wine. In summary, diversity in vineyards and winemaking brings quality, depth and resilience.

Wine is served and drunk at diverse occasions from state banquets, feast days and celebrations to the local bistro on the corner which serves simple wine to share with friends, fostering community amongst neighbours. In moderation, wine brings physical, emotional & intellectual satisfaction and has been part of human culture for millennia.

In recent decades, the diversity of wine drinkers has expanded into non-traditional wine drinking countries such as China and India. This consumer and market expansion has not yet fully translated into diversity in the trade. Yet leading business research and consultancy organizations advocate increased diversity in the workplace, leading to more successful, more profitable companies with better decision making, increased creativity and problem-solving skills and which are more reflective of consumers and the general population.

JANE MASTERS MW is one of 418 Masters of Wine worldwide. Every wine offered by Opimian is tasted and selected for its deliciousness and value by Jane, our consultant Master of Wine.

COUPS DE COEUR THIS CELLAR'S HIGHEST SCORING WINES

EVERYDAY DRINKING CAVEAU ET MILLAS, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES 2019, LOT 3267, P27

VIGNOBLES BELLEFONTAINE PRESTIGE, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES 2020, LOT 3219, P26

No doubt, winemakers, sommeliers, and wine professionals are more diverse than ever before. In order to increase opportunity and support, organizations such as The Roots Fund, Black Wine Professionals, and BAME (Black, Asian and minority ethnic people) Wine Professionals have been established. Last year, at the California Unified Symposium, sessions on diversity and gender equality were made available for free. In 2021, Angela Elizabeth Scott from the USA and South Africa's Dr. Erna Blancquaert were recipients of the Golden Vines Diversity Scholarship, which included $85,000 in funds, a $8,500 travel bursary, and access to an internship and mentorship programme. This is the headline diversity scholarship awarded by the not-for-profit Golden Vines Awards organized by Liquid Icons and is awarded each year to two BAME/BIPOC candidates to pursue their studies on the Master of Wine or Master Sommelier programme.

CELLARING POTENTIAL DOMAINE DU MURINAIS, VIEILLES VIGNES, AOP CROZES HERMITAGE, 2020, LOT 3248, P47

CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS, AOP SAINTJOSEPH, 2020, LOT 3255, P50

As the wine trade (like the rest of the world) faces serious challenges of climate change, evolving global markets and changing consumer expectations, we should encourage and welcome diversity in our trade in the same way as we do in vineyards and winemaking. I encourage everyone interested in wine whatever their age, gender, ethnic background to consider a career in this fantastic industry. Vive la différence! for more information on the aforementioned organizations, visit: Therootsfund.org/our-mission Blackwineprofessionals.com/ Bamewineprofessionals.co.uk/ Liquidicons.com/work/the-taylors-port-golden-vines-diversityscholarships

— CELLAR 293 COUPS DE COEUR

7

FRANCE

CHAMPAGNE

Champagne Doyard-Mahé VERTUS Champagne Doyard-Mahé is a smallgrower Champagne company based at Vertus in the heart of the Côte des Blancs sub-region of Champagne in northern France. It was created by Carole Doyard’s great-grandfather, Maurice, in 1927 at the Moulin d’Argnesole. Carole farms six hectares of vineyards classified as Premier Crus and makes elegant distinctive Champagnes.

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CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Carole Doyard & Raya play in the vineyard plot above Vertus planted with Chardonnay.

A PERFECT SIZE FOR EVERY SIZE PARTY

DM EMPREINTE, CHAMPAGNE DOYARDMAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU

Chardonnay

3192

3193

3194

$ 48 $ 288

Based in the Côte des Blancs, Carole’s Champagnes are made from Chardonnay grapes. Empreinte is pale in colour with fine streams of small bubbles rising to the surface in the glass. It is elegant with fresh white fruit aromas, white peach and lemon, silky creamy texture and a crisp finish. It is a non-vintage Champagne but much of the base wines came from the 2019 crop. These were then blended with older reserve wines, and it was bottled in January 2020 for the second fermentation.

Magnums will be signed by the winemaker.

2022-2024, M8 D9

$ 139 $ 139 $ 31 $ 186

White peach

6°C

Lemons, white fruits, [9.00]

12 %

Futomaki sushi

— CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAYÉ

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DM EMPREINTE, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU, LOT 3192, P9

PRODUCERS' CORNER

Champagne All Around!

Champagne tells a story. The story of a wine that has travelled the world and forged a fabulous destiny: a unique wine, made for sharing; a wine that cannot be ignored!

In the Doyard-Mahé family, Champagne is a family story!

Carole is the great-granddaughter of Maurice Doyard-Mahé, who founded the Maison in 1927. He co-founded the CIVC (Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne) in 1941. The role of the Committee, which groups together winegrowers and merchants in equal parts, is to promote and protect the Champagne Appellation both in France and internationally. The CIVC organizes the economy of the sector by regulating the harvest base yield per hectare each year, balancing production and the capacity of absorption by the market.

It was at a very young age, 11 years old to be exact, that Carole fell in love with Champagne by tasting her family’s 1988 vintage.

After travelling all over the world, Carole started working in the cellar with her father in 2005, and in 2009 she took over the reins of the vineyards with the firm intention of proving herself in this essentially masculine world, alongside her cousin Juliette and a team essentially composed of women.

Carole has very little downtime: she takes on the role of cellar master, vineyard manager, HR director, negotiator, and even... sweeper! Carole runs the family business with a masterful hand.

All the Champagnes she produces come from her six hectares of Chardonnay, all located on Premier Cru sites around the village of Vertus, in the southern part of the Côte des Blancs, in the northernmost wine region of France.

Carole is very in touch with environmental issues and has eliminated herbicides in the vineyard in recent years to work with compost to protect the soil. Her farm is now certified High Environmental Value and Sustainable Viticulture in

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CELLAR 293 — PRODUCERS' CORNER

Champagne (HVR VDC) without herbicides. She uses plotbased vinification to create more precise wines. To take the quality of her Champagnes to an even higher level, she uses only the best must from the grapes. The more astringent second cuts are sent to the local cooperative.

Passionate and bubbly like her Champagne, Carole has kept family traditions alive and transmits her passion with every sip she takes. She does so despite the challenges that the pandemic has caused in the industry and the market "trends" that are not always legitimate and easy to follow. In addition, with the price of a kilogram of grapes in Champagne skyrocketing, there are fewer and fewer winemakers who are making wine and prefer to sell their crops to the big Champagne houses.

If you were lucky enough to meet Carole in person during her 2019 Opimian membership tour, or at an Opimian virtual event, she will have no doubt explained the art of uncorking Champagne: Uncorking a bottle of Champagne correctly is a ritual. You take off the lining around the cork, then the wire: you have to turn the wire six times before it opens. You must not remove it. You tilt and turn the bottle, not the cork. If you want to open it as it is intended, the cork can't pop. Such an explosion leads to a faster loss of carbon dioxide. You will feel the cork rise, but you should press down the cork to make it come out slowly. The cork will make a 'little sigh' which is called the 'erotic sigh'. Now you can enjoy it, in a tulip glass of course!

For the last seven years, we are proud to count Carole among our partners.

NEW

3195

DM EXTRA BRUT DÉSIR, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU Chardonnay

$ 55

3196

DM ROSÉ, CHAMPAGNE DOYARDMAHÉ, CHARDONNAY & PINOT NOIR, VERTUS PREMIER CRU

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

$ 330

Cuvée Désir is an Extra Brut Champagne. Despite its lower dosage at 4g/l sugar, the higher proportion of old reserve wines in the cuvée gives it a richer, smoother character on the palate. It has lots of spring blossoms, white peaches, honeysuckle, nectarine and citrus characters with a smooth palate and lingering crisp finish.

$ 53

Chardonnay

$ 318

The addition of Pinot Noir to produce DM Rosé has produced a Champagne with a deep pink-orange colour. On the nose, delicate strawberry leaf and floral rosehip notes intermingle and lead to a smooth palate. It has a nice mid-palate weight with a fine mousse revealing flavours of blackcurrants and tart green apples.

2022-2024, M8 D9

$ 80

$ 240

This is a mature Champagne, bright in colour with complex and mellow characters.

Egg custard, butter and nectarine aromas lead to a palate with spicy flavours, cooked yellow plums, peaches, honey and a bitter citrus-pith finish. Bottle fermentation occurred in 2014 followed by aging until disgorgement in October 2021.

2022-2023, M8 D9

Honeysuckle, spring blossom

6°C

Strawberry leaf, rosehip

6°C

Nectarine, citrus, [4.00]

12%

Blackcurrant, [9.00]

12%

As a refreshing aperitif

3197

DM 2013, EXTRA BRUT, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU

Salmon carpaccio

2022-2024, M8 D9 Custard, nectarine, butter

6°C

Spicy, cooked yellow plum, peaches, citrus, [8.00]

12%

Mini-lobster rolls

photo — Oysters, shellfish or fish pair well with Extra Brut champagnes such as the DM 2013 vintage.

— CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAYÉ

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FRANCE

CHAMPAGNE NEW PRODUCER

Champagne Didier-Ducos SAINT-MARTIN-D’ABLOIS A grower Champagne based in the village of Saint-Martin-d’Ablois. DidierDucos vineyards lie in the Côteaux south of Épernay at the intersection between the Vallée de la Marne and the Côtes des Blancs. Nicolas Didier and his wife Clotilde cultivate all three of Champagne’s main varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir.

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CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Nicolas and Clotilde are the third generation to work on the estate. They are passionate about Champagne: a unique wine to drink with loved ones.

NEW

3203

CHAMPAGNE DIDIER - DUCOS NOIR ABSOLU BRUT

Pinot Noir

$ 77

$ 231

A blanc de noir Champagne produced exclusively from Pinot Noir, which brings structure and complexity. L’Absolu is subtle and complex with fresh apple and pine aromas. It is smooth with the acidity and the persistence of Pinot Noir giving presence on the palate finishing with flavours of fresh apples, quince and spices.

2022-2024, M8 D9

NEW

CHAMPAGNE DIDIER - DUCOS L'ABLUTIEN BRUT

Fresh apple, pine

6°C

Quince, spices, apple, [6.00]

12%

Grilled scallops with tomato and basil pie

Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay

$ 53

3199

$ 318

Produced from a blend of 80% Meunier, 15% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Noir, this is a more structured Champagne compared with Doyard Mahé’s light, elegant style. It has spicy buttery notes with mellow flavours and a firm, bitter pith finish.

$ 29

3200

$ 174 $ 110

3201

$ 330 $ 268

3202

$ 268

2022-2023, M8 D9 Spicy, nectarine

6°C

Mellow, bitter pith finish, [7.00]

12%

Pâté en croûte

photo — Pinot Meunier is the main grape variety in L'Ablutien.

— CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE DIDIER-DUCOS

13

FRANCE

CHABLIS

Lamblin et Fils MALIGNY-PAR-CHABLIS

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CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

In northern France, the vineyards of Chablis are located south of the Champagne region. Vines are planted on Kimmeridgian and Portlandian soils high in marine fossils, limestone and mineral-rich clay. They are classified into four quality-tiers based on their specific terroir. The Lamblin family company is based at Maligny, a small town a few kilometres north of the town of Chablis. The family’s viticultural roots reach back to 1690 – making it one of the oldest producers in the region. The Lamblins farm their own vineyards and buy grapes to make wines at all quality levels with the Chablis Appellation, Premiers Crus and Grand Cru wines from the very best sites. This selection is based mainly on 2020 wines, a year that followed the highly concentrated 2019 vintage. It was a cooler year, producing classic wines with consistently high quality across the board. One of the best of the last decade.

photo — Ploughing with a horse in the vineyards of Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume.

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, VIN BIO, 2019

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, FOURCHAUME, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, VIN BIO, 2018

Chardonnay

Chardonnay

Intense aromas of honey, dried hops and spices lead to a firmly structured palate. The Premier Cru of Vaillon is located on the left bank of the river Serein facing the Grand Cru vineyards. Flavours of yellow plum combine with a lemon astringency and some savoury notes. A powerful wine with a lingering finish.

Chardonnay grapes were grown organically, fermented in stainless steel and the wine matured on yeast lees for six months.

Complex and elegant, it has aromas of ripe cooked fruits, crumble, pâtisserie, honey, cream and ripe nectarine. It is mellow and extremely approachable. Fourchaume is probably the most famous of the Premier Cru sites. It is located just north of the town of Chablis, opposite Maligny, on the eastern bank of the Serein with a south to southwesterly aspect.

2022-2028, M8 D9 Honey, dried hops, spices

6°C

Yellow plum, lemon, savoury, [0.60]

13%

Chicken with chard and sorrel in a whitewine cream sauce

MIXED CASE 3207

2022-2026, M8 D9 Pâtisserie, crumble, cooked fruits

6°C

Nectarine, honey, [0.60]

13%

Striped bass and monkfish bourride

THREE BOTTLES EACH VAILLON & FOURCHAUME

CHABLIS 1ER CRU VAILLON & FOURCHAUME, ORGANIC

$ 52

$ 312

Forty Premier Cru vineyard sites lie on slopes on both sides of the river Serein close to the town of Chablis.

These are more disparate and varied than the Grand Crus which all sit close together. The Premier Crus produce wines with ageability and power, reflecting their particular terroir.

— CHABLIS LAMBLIN ET FILS

15

3204

CHABLIS, AOC, FLEUR D'ACACIA, 2020

Chardonnay

$ 42

3206

SAINT-BRIS SAUVIGNON, AOC, 2020

3205

CHABLIS, AOC, ÉLEVÉ EN FÛT DE CHÊNE, 2020

Chardonnay

$ 252

$ 43

$ 258

Young Chablis are often “closed,” meaning the aromas are muted and the naturally high acidity can be perceived as austere. It is precisely this structure that gives Chablis wines the potential to mature. 2020 Fleur d’Acacia has a steely structure with good weight and a firm acidity which gives depth and persistence.

This is a powerful wine, which should open up in the coming months.

Fresh coconut and aniseed aromas are laid over a recessive background of lemon with a hint of pineapple. Initially soft and round in the mouth, it becomes more astringent with nice weight and depth.

It is more structured than Fleur d’Acacia with a long oaky finish. It was fermented in old French oak barrels with regular stirring of the yeast lees.

2022-2028, M7 D8

2022-2028, M6 D8

Mineral, steely

6°C

Coconut, aniseed, lemon

6°C

Firm acidity, [0.50]

12.5%

Oaky, pineapple, [0.50]

12.5%

Emmenthal and Comté cheeses

Grilled lobster kebabs

Sauvignon Blanc

$ 28

$ 168

Aromas of elderflower, lime blossom, Granny Smith apples and white peaches lead to a supple, broad wine. Similar flavours continue on the palate followed by a bitter citrus pith character adding length.

The small Saint-Bris Appellation lies in the Yonne department in northern France, a few kilometres southwest of the Chablis region and specializes in Sauvignon Blanc.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Elderflower, white peach, Granny Smith apple

6°C

White fruits, [1.00]

13%

Mussels in white-wine curry sauce

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CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — The Lamblin family in the Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos vineyard (Didier, Clément, Alexandre and Michel).

MIXED CASE 3208

CHABLIS GRAND CRU VAUDÉSIR CASE

$ 420

$ 70

The highest quality Chablis vineyard sites are classified as Grand Cru and make up a tiny proportion of the region’s production. The seven Grand Crus all lie close together on a hill on the right bank of the Serein overlooking the town of Chablis. Vaudésir sits in an east-west valley on a terroir that produces elegant floral characters.

THREE BOTTLES EACH 2019 & 2020

CHABLIS GRAND CRU, VAUDÉSIR, AOC CHABLIS GRAND CRU, 2019

Chardonnay

CHABLIS GRAND CRU, VAUDÉSIR, AOC CHABLIS GRAND CRU, 2020

Chardonnay

The 2019 has aromas of honey, quince and spices which follow on to the palate. It has a nice mid-palate weight with firm acidity and a long finish and was fermented in old oak barrels. 2019 was a warm year with some heat spikes during the growing season, producing concentrated wines with natural acidity levels.

A structured wine that should mature nicely.

It was quite closed at the time of tasting with a hint of green apple aroma. The palate is smooth with good weight and depth. This is a tightly wound wine with sour apple and bitter fruits coming through on the palate. 2020 was an early vintage and one of the best in the last decade.

2022-2028, M7 D9

2023-2030, M6 D7

Honey, quince, spices

6°C

Green apples

6°C

Honey, spices, [1.00]

13%

Sour white fruits, crisp, [0.60]

13 %

Baked cod with lemon-cream sauce

photo — Chablis during the 2020 harvest.

Foie gras with mission fig sauce

— CHABLIS LAMBLIN ET FILS

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PRODUCERS FOR THIS CELLAR

FRANCE

SOUTHERN RHÔNE

15 Indie Wineries The Rhône Valley wine region can be divided into four parts. It runs north to south for around 240 kilometres from the south of Lyon to the Mediterranean coast. At the northern end, the Valley is narrow, with steep slopes of granite planted to Syrah. At the southern end, the Valley widens with lower gentle slopes scattered with alluvial deposits and typically rolled pebbles known as “galets” and the Rhône River delta. Here the climate is warmer and suitable for late-ripening varieties with plantings of Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache alongside Syrah.

Both sides of the river have Appellations with distinctive terroirs: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas on the left bank, Tavel and Lirac on the right, are amongst the most well known. Côtes du Rhône is produced throughout, the best examples often coming from growers making more prestigious Appellations who make a strict selection for their top wines declassifying their lesser wines. Côtes du Rhône Villages are a step up in quality with several villages with the highest potential permitted to append their name to the Appellation. To the west, off the main drag, is the Ardèche with vineyards in mountainous settings.

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CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — A picturesque village in Ardèche.

3212

DOMAINE DE MERMÈS, JEAN ESPRIT, IGP ARDÈCHE, 2020

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 27

$ 162

3213

DOMAINE DE MERMÈS, COLLINE D'ESPRIT, IGP ARDÈCHE, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

$ 27

3214

DOMAINE DE MERMÈS, MERLOT, IGP ARDÈCHE, 2020

Merlot

$ 162

$ 162

$ 27

A medium-bodied wine with appealing mellow cooked fruits, blueberry muffin aromas with a touch of green leaf. It is supple on the palate with persistent pure fresh blackcurrant flavour.

Vibrant in colour, this wine oozes ripe forest fruits with blackberries and cherries. It is supple with concentrated fruit and sour blackberry flavours.

Grassy notes with dark fruit aromas, it has blackberry, blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavours with some grip on the finish.

2022-2024, M8 D9

2022-2024, M8 D9

2022-2024, M8 D9

Cooked fruits, blueberry muffin

18°C

Forest fruits, blackberries

18°C

Grassy, dark fruit

18°C

Blackcurrant

14.5%

Sour blackberry

14.5%

Blackberry, blackcurrant

14.5%

Grilled sirloin with Cabernet reduction

Skirt steak with balsamic glaze

Roast pork loin with tamarind sauce

ARDÈCHE DOMAINE DE MERMÈS Domaine de Mermès is a family owned 20-hectare vineyard in the southern Ardèche on the Plateau de Gras, found on the eastern edge of the Massif Central. Its vines are cultivated at 360 metres on stony clay limestone soils and are in organic conversion. Patrice and Séverine Dumarcher make wines in an old stone cellar built in 1931.

The domaine also distills essential lavender oil from five hectares of lavender fields. photo — Séverine Comte and Patrice Dumarcher, a story of generations of passionate winemakers since 1931.

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DE MERMÈS

19

WINE TOURISM

Fresh Ardèche | France's Best-Kept Secret This central region, on the road less travelled by international tourists, boasts jaw-dropping landscapes, classic cuisine and delicious wines.

Adventure seekers will enjoy hiking or canoeing down the Ardèche River in the Gorges National Nature Reserve, while history lovers will enjoy the ancient caves containing the world’s earliest known cave paintings, dating back 30,000 years.

Add to that more “recent” medieval castles and villages where you walk the ancient streets and be transported back in time.

Wine lovers will also find their thrill: vines have been growing in Ardèche for over 2000 years, well before the Roman conquest. Today there are 8500 hectares of vineyards and four Appellations on hilly terroirs (300 metres in altitude on average) growing lavender, olive trees, pine trees and chestnut trees in addition to vines. The grape varieties found in the Rhône Valley thrive here in Ardèche, producing rich and mineral wines, with the addition of one indigenous grape, Chatus. Indigenous to Ardèche, it is very rare, as only 60 hectares aare cultivated. Chatus is one of the oldest grape varieties in France, cultivated as far back as the 17th century, along with Pinot Noir (most of the grape varieties from that time have been hybridized or crossbred and no longer exist). Chatus is genetically close to its Italian cousin, Nebbiolo di Dronero.

Opimian’s new producer, Vignerons Ardéchois, is an award-winning wine cooperative founded in 1967 comprising twelve wineries. These producers represent 85% of the vines planted in Ardèche. Outside of the region, it is rare to find these exceptional wines. The cooperative is committed to biodiversity and is working to convert all its vineyards to organic farming.

Vignerons Ardéchois is the first producer of volcanic wines in France: 300 hectares are cultivated on the Coiron Mountain on basaltic soil.

Syrah Basalte du Coiron, IGP Ardèche, Vignerons Ardéchois from this terroir, was named “Wine of the Week” by Julia Harding MW in 2021.

White wine lover? Viognier does particularly well in Ardèche, on the light sandstone soils of the Cévennes foothills. Vignerons Ardéchois produce over 450 hectares of the varietal, making it the largest producer of Viognier in the world. It is this producer’s flagship grape variety and is served at the best restaurants in France, like Paul Bocuse.

see | The Chauvet-Pont-d'Arc Cave which contains the earliest-known and best-preserved figurative prehistoric drawings in the world. eat | Le Carré d’Alethius, a Michelinstarred restaurant in Charmes-sur-Rhône. do | Kayak or canoe down the Gorges de l’Ardèche.

20

CELLAR 293 — WINE TOURISM

SYRAH BASALTE DU COIRON, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020, LOT 3262, P23

FOOD

Seared Pork Chops with Roasted Roots

by Emma Cerulli

These thick-cut, top loin pork chops are seared until golden brown and served with a super-simple pan jus made with tangy pomegranates and honey.

Ingredients

Directions

Pork Chops

1.

• 4 thick-cut, top loin, boneless pork chops, about 2 inches thick

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

2.

Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme & honey and spread over baking sheet.

3.

Roast 30-35 mins until potatoes are golden brown and beets are cooked through.

• Sea salt • Freshly cracked black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 2 c (500ml) pomegranate juice • 2 tbsp honey • 2 c (500ml) chicken stock • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 1 tbsp butter • 1/2 lb (250g) pomegranate seeds

4. Rub pork chops with olive oil, generous amount of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

5.

Press pork chops down onto heated skillet, making sure there is even surface contact.

6.

Sear 3 mins per side, or until dark golden brown. Sear sides of pork chops for 1 min to seal juices in.

7.

Remove pork chops from pan and set aside for later.

• 1 bunch Italian flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped

8. While pan is still hot over medium-high heat, pour pomegranate juice and chicken stock into pan to deglaze.

Drop in 2 whole sprigs of fresh thyme and crushed garlic clove.

Roasted Roots

9.

• 2 medium sized beets, peeled & cut into large wedges

10. Place pork back into pan and carefully place skillet into oven.

• 4-6 small carrots, peeled & halved • 1 lb (500g) button mushrooms, stems removed • 5-6 baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes, halved • 1 head garlic, halved • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped • 2 tbsp olive oil

Scrape up brown bits left in pan with wooden spoon and bring to rapid simmer until liquid reduces by about half (5 mins).

11. Cook until pork chops register at 145°F using a meat thermometer (5 -10 mins).

DOMAINE DE MERMÈS, COLLINE D'ESPRIT, IGP ARDÈCHE, 2020, LOT 3213, P19

12. Remove chops from pan and add 1 tbsp butter to pan and swirl around in hot pan sauce.

13. Serve pork chops sliced or whole, drizzled with pan sauce and top with fresh pomegranate seeds and Italian flat-leaf parsley.

14. Serve roasted vegetables piping hot alongside pork with the roasted garlic divided amongst 4 plates.

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup • Sea salt, to taste • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Emma Cerulli is a Montreal-based chef and Creative Director. Her passion for cooking began in her family kitchen and grew into a fulfilling and challenging career. Emma has worked in some of Montreal’s top kitchens.

— CELLAR 293 FOOD

21

VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS The Ardèche is a beautiful region west of the Rhône Valley with breathtaking landscapes of mountains, gorges, rapids and canyons scattered with ancient stone villages. Vineyards lie in the foothills of the Cévennes Mountains and along the Ardèche River a tributary of the Rhône. Planted with similar grape varieties to the southern Rhône, it also has its own native variety, Chatus.

ADD CHATUS TO YOUR CELLAR, UNIQUE TO THE ARDÈCHE REGION

NEW

3259

MONNAIE D'OR CHATUS RÉSERVE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020 NEW

Chatus

$ 40

$ 240

In the 19th century, Chatus was widely cultivated on the light sandstone soils of the Cévennes Mountains. It is the oldest grape of the region and is referenced in writings from the 16th century. Monnaie d'Or 2020 is relatively light in structure. It has aromas of blackcurrant with caramel, vanilla and coffee.

Grown by a handful of growers on terraced slopes bordered by dry stone walls locally called “faisses.” The oldest plot dates to 1883 in the village of Vernon. Chatus is a late-ripening variety. The grapes were picked by hand and the wine was partly aged in top-quality oak.

3260

DOMAINE TERRA NOÉ, ESPRIT DE NOÉ ROSÉ, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 156

$ 26

Bright raspberry in colour, it has plenty of red fruits, herbs and strawberry leaf aromas. Its palate is refreshing and crisp.

Produced by Domaine Terra Noé, an organically farmed estate that is also a registered bird sanctuary.

2022-2025, M8 D9 Caramel, coffee, blackcurrant

16°C

Strawberry leaf

6°C

Toasty fruits

13.5 %

Red fruits, herbs, [1.00]

13 %

Dark chocolate mousse

22

2022-2023, M8 D9

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Smoked salmon croque monsieur

photo — Jean-François Laville, a winegrower from Ardèche who pioneered organic viticulture, here in his vineyards.

NEW

3262

NEW

SYRAH BASALTE DU COIRON, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020

Syrah

3261

FRIGOULE, SYRAH ARDÈCHE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020

Syrah

$ 26

$ 156

The Massif du Coiron is a result of volcanic activity and erosion over the ages: basalt rock from volcanic lava forms the basis for vineyard soils. Syrah grown on basalt around Alba-la-Romaine has produced a wine with dark fruits and chocolate aromas.

It is medium-bodied with sour berry flavours, firm acidity and tannins on the finish.

$ 174

$ 29

A supple wine with a succulent mid-palate and appealing flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, vanilla and woody notes.

Juicy fruits lead into a savoury finish. It was made from a parcel selection of Syrah in the villages of Albala-Romaine and Valvignères.

After three weeks of fermentation and maceration on skins, the wine was matured for 12 months, half in barrel.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Dark fruits, chocolate

16°C

Blackberry, vanilla, woody

18°C

Sour berries

14.5%

Blackcurrant, savoury

14.5%

Barbecued soy-marinated flank steak

photo — Viognier, Chardonnay and Syrah are patiently aged at Domaine Terra Noé. These will be used in two prestige vintages to be launched in 2023.

2022-2026, M7 D9

Beef-stuffed pepper-jack bell peppers

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS

23

COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET Costières de Nîmes is the most southerly Appellation of the Rhône Valley covering an area in and around Nîmes – a city which dates to the Roman Empire. Château Saint-Bénezet, situated between the city and the Mediterranean Sea in the commune of Saint-Gilles, has 120 hectares of vines and is run by Yann Soulairac and Elise Bosse-Platière.

3215

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET, LES HAUTS DE COSTE-RIVES, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

$ 252

$ 21

This has intense ripe cherry and berry fruits, with a smooth medium-bodied palate.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Ripe cherry & berry fruits

18°C

Bitter cherry

14 %

Red-wine braised beef cheeks

NEW

3216

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET MOULIN BAGUET, BLANC, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2021 Roussane, Viognier, Grenache Blanc

$ 26

$ 156

A light and fresh white with crisp acidity and lingering fruit flavours.

2022-2023, M8 D9 Lemon citrus

6°C

White fruits, [0.00]

13%

Pan-seared shrimp with ginger and lime

24

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Yann Soulairac is the owner of Château

Saint-Bénezet.

NEW

3218

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET MOULIN BAGUET, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Marselan

$ 28

$ 168

Blackberries and other dark fruits are complemented by savoury notes. It is medium-bodied with some grip.

3217

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET, LES HAUTS DE COSTE-RIVES, ROSÉ, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 21

A pale rosé made from equal parts of Grenache and Syrah. It has hints of pear and sherbet on the nose followed by a supple smooth palate with lemon and raspberry flavours.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Dark fruits

18°C

Blackberry, savoury

14%

$ 252

2022-2023, M8 D9 Pear, sherbet

6°C

Lemon, raspberry, [0.00]

12.5%

Tomato-eggplant ratatouille Grilled halloumi

THE BEST IN A BOX

$151 PER CELLAR

A CURATED 6-BOTTLE MIXED CASE SHOWCASING 3 WINES FROM EACH CELLAR.

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET

25

NEW

3220

NEW

VIGNOBLES BELLEFONTAINE PRESTIGE, BLANC, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2021 Grenache Blanc, Roussane, Viognier

$ 28

$ 168

A subtle wine with spring blossom, white fruits and quince characters. It is a blend of 50% Grenache Blanc, 30% Roussane and 20% Viognier. Grapes were picked in the coolness of night, directly pressed and fermented at 16-18°C.

3219

VIGNOBLES BELLEFONTAINE PRESTIGE, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2020

Syrah, Grenache

$ 174

$ 29

A standout wine amongst its peers, it is a hit. It has sweet dark fruits, currants, blackcurrant with a linty aroma. It is smooth with a fine powdery texture and the same ripe fruit flavours on the palate. A polished and classy wine for the price with persistent bitter cherry and chocolate flavours.

2022-2023, M8 D9 Quince, white fruits Citrus, [0.00]

2022-2025, M7 D8

6°C Blackcurrant, currants

18°C

Bitter cherry, chocolate

14%

13%

Maple-glazed roasted root vegetables Slow roast leg of lamb with blueberry sauce

CHÂTEAU BELLEFONTAINE Owned by Elise Bosse-Platière and Yann Soulairac of Château Saint-Bénezet, this is a 60-hectare estate at Franquevaux in Costières de Nîmes. The pair carry out strict parcel selection and are currently transitioning to organic viticulture. Château Bellefontaine wines are smartly packaged in contemporary design and sealed with a glass Vinoloc stopper that pops off – no need for a corkscrew.

26

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Château Bellefontaine is a wine tourism spot with luxury accommodations in the heart of the vineyard.

3267

CAVEAU ET MILLAS, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2019

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault

$ 27

$ 162

Herbs and spice, woody notes and aniseed aromas lead to a concentrated palate with sweet dark fruits, tobacco, bitter cherry, coconut and smoke. This is a medium- to full-bodied wine which has good mid-palate and some grip on the finish. The crocodile label is catchy and has been a symbol of Nîmes since Roman times.

DOMAINE CAVEAU & MILLAS

3266

CAVEAU ET MILLAS, AOP CLAIRETTE DE BELLEGARDE, 2020

Clairette POUR SOME SOUTHERN RHÔNE INTO YOUR GLASS

$ 28

$ 168

Hints of nectarine and lemon continue onto the palate. It is fresh and crisp with a citrus astringency. Clairette de Bellegarde is a tiny Appellation between Arles and Nîmes in the far south of the Rhône Valley just 30 kilometres from the coast. Produced from 100% Clairette grape, 25% of the wine was vinified in French oak barrels.

2022-2023, M8 D9

photo — Cyril Marès returned to the family estate in 1996 to take over from his father at Domaine Caveau et Millas.

2022-2026, M7 D9

Nectarine, lemon, sourdough

6°C

Dark smoky fruit, leather

18°C

Citrus, [0.00]

13%

Savoury fruit

15%

Goat cheese toast points with olive oil

London broil

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE CAVEAU & MILLAS

27

NEW

3263

VIOGNIER GRÈS DU TRIAS, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020

Viognier

$ 24

$ 144

Appealing aromas of nectarines and mandarin are subtle and lead to a soft, round palate. It is perfect for drinking now and over the next 12 months with ripe mango flavours. The Ardèche is known for its Viognier grown on sandstone soils.

2022-2023, M8 D9 Mandarin, nectarine

6°C

Mango, [0.50]

14%

Chicken pot pie with butternut squash

28

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

WINE WITH DINNER EVERY NIGHT

TOP VALUE WINES FOR YOUR EVERYDAY DRINKING

NEW

3264

NEW

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE ROUGE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021

3268

Carignan, Marselan, Merlot

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

$ 228

$ 19

DOMAINE DE SAINT-PAULET, AOP GRIGNAN LES ADHEMAR, 2018

$ 18

$ 216

An easy-drinking red with mulberries and other red fruits.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Mulberry, chocolate

16°C

Red fruits

13.5 %

Tomato and egg casserole

NEW

3265

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE ROSÉ, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021

Caladoc, Grenache

$ 19

$ 228

Pretty pale pink in colour, it has nice fresh fruits with red berries, pears and talc.

A simple but intensely flavoured wine brimming with jammy fruits, raspberries and red cherries.

2022-2023, M8 D9

2022-2024, M8 D9

Pears, talc

6°C

Jammy fruits

16°C

Fresh fruits, [0.50]

%

Raspberry, red cherry

13.5 %

Feta and spinach quiche

Bulgogi

— THE RHÔNE VALLEY TOP VALUE WINES

29

SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DES ROMARINS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Carignan

$ 26

3221

$ 156 $ 49

3222

$ 147

DOMAINE DES ROMARINS DOMAINE DES ROMARINS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES SIGNARGUES, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

$ 29

3223

$ 174 $ 51

3224

Deep in colour, the 2020 has black cherry and olive aromas. It is a supple, medium-bodied wine which is dense with sour blackberry and other fruit flavours. Grapes were picked by hand, de-stemmed, and each variety fermented separately in traditional concrete tanks at 26-28°C with daily pump-overs.

$ 153

Signargues is a step up in the quality hierarchy producing Côtes du Rhône Villages in the area around Domazan. Vines are planted on a relatively flat plateau with deep sandstone, rocky and sandy soils with rolled pebbles over clay. One of the driest and warmest parts of the Southern Rhône, the sun-loving Mourvèdre vines do well. Aromas of red apple and cherries continue onto the palate with more dark fruits emerging and leading to a savoury finish with some grip.

2022-2026, M7 D9

2022-2025, M7 D9 Black olive, black cherry

18°C

Red apple, cherry

18°C

Sour blackberries

14.5 %

Savoury dark fruit

15%

Pilaf-stuffed crown roast of lamb

30

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Domaine des Romarins is in the south of the Southern Rhône region west of Avignon at Domazan. The domaine consistently turns out good Appellation Côtes du Rhône and has been an Opimian favourite for many years.

Xavier and Benoît Fabre continue the family tradition of four generations.

Roast partridge with cranberries

photo — Xavier Fabre (right) and his longtime-friend Bertrand (left) proudly showing the quality of their manual harvest.

NEW

3226

NEW

DOMAINE ST PIERRE, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2020

Viognier, Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne

$ 29

$ 174

Aromas of fennel, lemon, pineapple and quince give lots of appeal. The palate is supple and smooth with fresh pineapple flavours followed with a crisp finish. It is a blend of four traditional white Rhône grapes with 30% Viognier, 30% Clairette, 20% Grenache Blanc and 20% Roussanne.

NEW

3225

3227

DOMAINE ST PIERRE, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES SABLET, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 180

$ 30

Floral aromas of rose petal and violets mingle with aniseed, earth and sooty notes. It is medium-bodied with good mid-palate fruit.

Similar floral flavours in the mouth precede a grippy chocolate finish. Côtes du Rhône Villages Sablet is a smallish Appellation bordering, and to the north of, Gigondas. Vines are planted on red clay sand soils containing 60% rolled pebbles.

LE VIOGNIER DU MAZET, IGP GARD, 2021 2022-2023, M8 D9

Viognier

$ 28

$ 168

Stone fruits, grapefruit and mineral aromas follow on to the palate with other citrus characters and a tangy lemon acidity. Viognier was planted around 15 years ago, grapes were mechanically harvested at night, pressed and the must left to settle. The clarified juice was fermented in tank at 16-18°C.

2022-2025, M8 D9

Fennel, lemon, pineapple

6°C

Rose petal, violet, aniseed, earth

18°C

Quince pineapple, [1.00]

13%

Floral, chocolate

14%

Roast trout with fennel

Veal stew with gremolata

DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE A traditional family estate, close to the Appellations of Vacqueyras and Gigondas. The Fauque brothers own 50 hectares of vineyards with a quarter made up of old vines. Domaine SaintPierre have made their entire grape harvest into wine since 1933.

2022-2023, M8 D9 Wet stone, grapefruit

6°C

Lemon, grapefruit, [2.00]

15%

Pissaladière

photo — Domaine Saint-Pierre has been a family estate for 5 generations in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley,

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE SAINT-PIERRE

31

NEW

3228

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP RASTEAU, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 32

$ 192

A blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, it has red berry, raspberry and balsamic notes with meaty black treacle character. Initially light on the palate, the tannins make their presence known becoming quite astringent and grippy on the finish.

Overall, quite a savoury, rustic wine. It was fermented in tradition concrete tanks then aged for 12 months in old oak vats. The Rasteau Appellation, north of Gigondas, is on the banks of the Ouvèze River, a tributary of the Rhône.

3229

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CAIRANNE, 2019

Grenache, Syrah

$ 32

Domaine Martin Cairanne has musky aromas with undergrowth, incense, soot, coffee and woody notes. It is medium-bodied with a supple mid palate leading to chewy finish with lingering bitter olive flavours. Cairanne Appellation neighbours that of Rasteau and is named after the eponymous village that sits on a rocky outcrop. The Aigues River passes through the region on its way to meet the Rhône with vineyards planted on a variety of alluvial and iron rich soils.

2022-2026, M7 D9

2022-2026, M8 D9

Black treacle, meaty, balsamic

18°C

Musk, woody, undergrowth

18°C

Raspberry

15%

Coffee, olive, soot, black fruit

15%

Daube de boeuf Provençal

32

$ 192

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Coffee and Cognac roasted duck breast

photo — The Domaine Martin harvest is done by hand, in the purest tradition with faithful friends.

3230

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES PLAN DE DIEU, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 180

$ 30

Spicy aromas of cinnamon, clove and coffee dominate with black cherry and raspberry jam in the background. It is supple initially with a grainy texture and chewy tannins produced from 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre.

2022-2025, M7 D9

DOMAINE MARTIN Domaine Martin has 72 hectares situated between Châteauneuf-DuPape and Gigondas. The winery in the Plan de Dieu region is at Travaillan.

The domaine, established by Julien Martin in 1901, is currently managed by cousins David and Eric, his greatgrandsons. The terroir is typical alluvial soils with large rolled pebbles.

Coffee, cinnamon, spices, raspberry

18°C

Bitter cherry

15%

Roast goose with Chinese five-spice

NEW

3231

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNES VILLAGES SAINTECÉCILE, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

$ 180

$ 30

A medium-bodied red with red cherry, floral and vanilla aromas. It is smooth with a fine texture and savoury finish. It is a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah traditionally vinified with three weeks on skins.

2022-2026, M7 D9 Red cherry, vanilla, rose

18°C

Red fruits, savoury

14.5%

Beef Wellington

photo — Domaine Martin welcomes a motivated apprentice who loves his craft. David and Eric Martin share their passion with the younger generation.

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE MARTIN

33

DID YOU KNOW?

Rhôneology | Part 1

By Louise Wilson MW

In my opinion, the best way to learn about a wine region is to taste your way through the Appellations. In the case of the Rhône, it is a delicious education.

LA POUITOUNE, AOP VENTOUX, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2019, LOT 3237, P39

The Rhône is one of the world’s oldest wine regions and in France, second only to Bordeaux in size. Vines flank the banks of their namesake river from Vienne to Avignon. The hierarchy of Appellations begins with the wines of the Côtes du Rhône, ascends through the Côtes du Rhône Villages, graduates to the 22 Villages with specified names and peaks with the 17 Côtes du Rhône Crus. Increasingly stringent production standards ensure a corresponding rise in quality.

A distinct contrast exists between the wines produced in the continental climate of the Northern Rhône and those made in the Mediterranean climate of the south. Let’s begin our journey south of Montélimar, where the Mistral winds sweep the skies of clouds and clear the vineyards of pests and mildew. The galets roulés or pudding stones are another striking aspect of the terroir. Most closely associated with the soils of Châteauneufdu-Pape, these rounded pebbles give an extra boost to the vines by absorbing the heat of the day and radiating it back to the vines in the evening.

Blends rule in the Southern Rhône. The advantage is two-fold. Not only does each grape contribute its best attributes in terms of flavours and structure, the

34

CELLAR 293 — DID YOU KNOW?

strategy of blending also offers viticultural insurance from variable weather.

Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (GSM) blends dominate. Grenache brings bright strawberry flavours and generous alcohol while Syrah and Mourvèdre add tannic structure and harmonious flavours. Syrah also contributes elements of red and black fruit, savoury bacon and pepper while Mourvèdre complements the trio with its inky colour and earthy tones.

Numerous other varieties support the red blends, while Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier lead the charge for the white blends.

The most revered Cru in the south is Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines are simultaneously savoury and fruity, both approachable and capable of aging.

Neighboring Gigondas can be a great place to shop, delivering on quality with a characteristic fresh and elegant style.

White wines are more elusive; however, some gems can be found within the Côtes du Rhône, Costières de Nimes and Ventoux. Tavel is reserved for rosé only, offering deeply coloured, mouth-filling, and impressively food-worthy wines.

And this is just a glimpse into the wines of the Southern Rhône. Enjoy your research!

LOUISE WILSON MW lives in the Niagara region and is one of ten Masters of Wine based in Canada. She has worked in a number of different fields including export, retail, hospitality and education.

Lyon

Côte Rôtie 1 Condrieu

St-Joseph

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP GIGONDAS, 2019, LOT 3271, P37

Crozes-Hermitage 2

3

Cornas Valence

4

5 6

Clairette de Die 7 11 Châtillon-en-Diose 8 9 10 12

OUR RHÔNE PRODUCERS 1. Domaine Pichon, P50

13

14

Côtes du Vivarais

2. Domaine des Remizières, P49

Coteaux du Tricastin

15

3. Domaine du Murinais, P47

Côte du Rhône Villages

4. Vignerons Ardéchois, P22 5. Domaine de Mermès, P19 6. Château MontPlaisir, P41 8. Domaine Martin, P32

Lirac Tavel

9. Domaine de Piéblanc, P39 10. Château de Montmirail, P38

13. Domaine la Pierre du Coq, P40

16. Domaine des Romarins, P30

Ventoux

17

Nimes

18

14. Domaine Berthet-Rayne, P45 15. Château La Genestière, P42

Châteauneufdu-Pape

Côte du Rhône Villages

11. Domaine des Fontnobles, P37 12. Domaine Saint Pierre, P31

Gigondas Vacqueyras

16

7. Domaine des 3 Lys, P36

Luberon

Costières-de-Nimes

17. Château Saint-Bénezet, P24 18. Château Bellefontaine, P26

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

GO MORE IN-DEPTH WITH PART 2 ON PAGE 48.

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES CHUSCLAN, 2020, LOT 3272, WEB EXCLUSIVE

— CELLAR 293 DID YOU KNOW?

35

3232

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS, TRADITION, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

$ 150

$ 25

The Tradition cuvée is a light, easy-drinking Rhône with dark berry flavours and soft tannins. Made from the same grape varieties as the Truffes Noires but with a lower proportion of Syrah at 40%, along with 40% Grenache and 20% Carignan.

2022-2024, M8 D9 Dark berries

16°C

Supple, light

14%

Barbecued Black Angus burgers with berry compote

NEW

3233

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS, TRUFFES NOIRES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

$ 29

$ 174

A supple wine with raspberries, plums and bitter cherry aromas. More savoury notes with smoke and licorice emerge in the mouth. It is a blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 10% Carignan.

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS Domaine des 3 Lys, in the heart of Côtes du Rhône country, is at Rochegude on the left bank. It has 30 hectares of vineyards and is the latest project of the owners of Châteaux SaintBénezet and Bellefontaine in Costières de Nîmes.

2022-2025, M8 D9 Plums, marzipan

18°C

Raspberry, cherry, liquorice

14%

Grilled veal chops with Marsala-fig sauce

36

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Old Grenache vines on a terroir of pebbles called "les grès du Rhône".

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES Domaine des Fontnobles has approximately 25 hectares of southfacing slopes beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail in the Appellations of Gigondas and Vacqueyras. The soil is clay limestone with an abundance of galets have been deposited by the Ouvèze River.

NEW

3270

NEW

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP VACQUEYRAS, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 36

$ 216

3271

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP GIGONDAS, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 41

$ 246

NEW

3269

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Marselan

$ 20

$ 240

Mulberries, blackberry cordial, raspberry and plum fruits combine with mint and violet aromas. This is an intense wine brimming with sweet ripe fruit. It is smooth with a juicy acidity and lots of red fruit complemented by a savoury herbal note.

Pine, coconut, raisins and fruitcake aromas are all apparent in this medium- to full-bodied Gigondas. Jammy fruits and a good mid-palate cede to a firm acidity and a grainy texture. It was matured in concrete tanks for a year.

Smoky pine notes with dark fruit aromas lead to a supple smooth palate with sweet fruit flavours. It is medium bodied with a velvet structure followed by a firm grippy finish and lingering cherry menthol.

2022-2024, M8 D9

2022-2028, M7 D9

2022-2028, M7 D8

Pine, smoke, dark fruit

18°C

Mulberries, blackcurrant cordial, mint, violets

18°C

Pine, coconut, raisins

18°C

Sweet red fruit, cherry menthol

13.5%

Red fruits, savoury herbal

14.5 %

Jammy fruits

14.5%

Bean and lentil chili with smoked paprika

photo — Jacques and Maxime Bertrand perpetuate the family tradition of winemaking in the heart of the hamlet of Fontbonne in Vacqueyras.

Venison stew with bacon and brandy

Asian-spiced braised beef

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES

37

3234

CHÂTEAU DE MONTMIRAIL, LE GRAMINIER, AOP GIGONDAS, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 37

$ 222 2022-2028, M6 D8

Red berries, cherries

18°C

Cherry menthol

15.5%

Gigondas produces big bold wines using a high proportion of Grenache – up to 80%. The Dentelles de Montmirail are a backdrop to the scenery with vineyards nestled in its foothills. Le Graminier 2020 is restrained yet full of red berries and cherry fruits fighting to get out. It is supple and smooth on the palate with concentrated cherry menthol flavours and a rich firm acidity adding great depth.

Despite its high alcohol at 15.5%, it is pure and fresh and perfectly balanced.

Produced from a blend of 75% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre.

Shawarma-spiced grilled chicken kebabs

CHÂTEAU DE MONTMIRAIL

DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC A relatively new domaine created in 2014 by Matthieu Ponson. Domaine de Piéblanc, in the Vaucluse department, is situated to the northeast of the commune of Caromb close to Mont Ventoux. The property has 10 hectares of vines at 300 metres surrounded by nothing but olive trees, pines and oaks.

The domaine also owns 15 hectares in the Beaumes de Venise Appellation and six in Gigondas. All the vineyards are organically farmed with official certification from 2020 vintage.

38

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — The Château de Montmirail has been faithful to Opimian since 2003.

NEW

3235

LES TERRES, AOP GIGONDAS, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault

$ 38

3236

LES HAUTS, AOP BEAUMES DE VENISE, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

$ 228

A more savoury Gigondas than the Montmirail, grapes were grown on 50-year-old vines close to the village of Gigondas. Red and black fruit aromas are complemented by earthy notes and soot.

Black treacle characters come out on the palate with a bitter fruit finish.

$ 35

$ 210

Hazelnut, earth and gamey aromas lie over a red floral background. The palate is linear with sour red and black fruits, balsamic notes and a firm acidity. Produced from 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, grapes were organically grown at 300 metres. After a 48-hour cold soak and fermentation in tank, the wine was matured with 30% in barrel.

2022-2025, M8 D9

NEW

3237

LA POUITOUNE, AOP VENTOUX, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2019

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault

$ 186

$ 31

Aromas of dark smoky fruits are complemented by a nice hint of leather. This is a supple wine, grainy in texture with savoury fruit flavours and a firm acidity. The Ventoux vineyards surround the farmhouse sitting amidst wild garrigue and scrub.

2022-2026, M6 D7

2022-2025, M8 D9

Smoke, soot, red and black fruit

18°C

Gamey, hazelnut, floral

18°C

Dark fruits, smoke, leather

18°C

Black treacle, bitter fruit

14.5%

Balsamic, red fruits

14.5%

Savoury fruit

14.5%

Salted dark chocolate tart

photo — Matthieu Ponson, owner of the Domaine de Piéblanc, with his team.

Scalloped potatoes with black truffle

Duck confit with thyme and rosemary

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC

39

MIXED CASE DOMAINE LA PIERRE DU COQ

NEW

NEW

LES GALINES, AOP VENTOUX, BLANC, LA PIERRE DU COQ, 2021

Grenache Blanc, Roussane

3238

LA PIERRE DU COQ LES GALINES/BEAUMAJOUR CASE

$ 32

$ 192

Ventoux is a large wine region to the southeast of the southern Rhône and northeast of Avignon city. The region is dominated by Mont Ventoux which rises to 1,900 metres and is nicknamed the “Beast of Provence.” Domaine de la Pierre du Coq at Aubignan has nine hectares of vines in the foothills of the mountain, mainly planted with Grenache. Olivier Bessac and his sister Carole are the fourth generation of their family to run the estate.

Tasted as a cloudy, unfiltered tank sample, this wine showed good promise with white blossom and fruit flavours. It is light to medium bodied with a firm limey acidity and floral finish. It is a blend of 60% Grenache Blanc and 40% Roussanne.

2022-2023, M8 D9 White blossom

6°C

White fruits, [1.00]

14%

Bouillabaisse

BEAUMAJOUR, AOP VENTOUX, BLANC, LA PIERRE DU COQ, 2021

Grenache Blanc, Roussane, Marsanne More expressive with a higher proportion of Roussanne and the addition of Marsanne, the Beaumajour has lots of fresh spring aromas, blossom and white fruits. The palate is elegant with citrus – mandarin and grapefruit notes alongside delicate white flowers. It is a blend of 60% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 10% Marsanne. The Roussanne and Marsanne components were fermented in oak.

2022-2023, M8 D9 Spring blossom, white fruit

6°C

Mandarin, citrus, [1.00]

14%

Pan-fried skate in lemon-beurre blanc sauce

THREE BOTTLES EACH LES GALINES & BEAUMAJOUR

40

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — After years of selling their grapes to local coops, Olivier Bessac and his sister Carole helped create the cellar at the Domaine.

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR Having a strong desire to become a vigneron, Benoît Chaignon purchased a six-hectare vineyard in Vinsobres. Afterwards, the family purchased 17th-century Château Montplaisir with a further four hectares of vines in nearby Valréas.

NEW

3239

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR CUVÉE MONTPLAISIR SAFRES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES VALRÉAS, 2019

3240

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

$ 35

$ 210

This is a concentrated structured wine which will benefit from some bottle age. Aromas are subdued with almond, vanilla yogurt, cola, red fruits and herbs.

The palate is firm with sour fruits and tannin. The plots of Grenache and Carignan were planted in 1945, the Syrah in 1943; all are farmed organically. The vineyard is a single four-hectare slope at 280 metres with western exposure.

NEW

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR VIEILLES GRENACHES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2019

Grenache, Syrah

$ 33

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR HAUTS GALETS, AOP CRU DES CÔTES DU RHÔNE VINSOBRES, 2017

Grenache, Syrah

$ 198

Floral aromas combine with more savoury and earthy notes with smoke and herbs.

Black fruit flavours show on the palate which is supple and smooth. This is not a hugely expressive Grenache, but it is dense and structured with a lingering bitter fruit finish. Produced from 90% Grenache from 75-year-old vines with 10% Syrah.

2022-2028, M6 D7

3241

$ 306

$ 51

A full-bodied wine, it has mellow, sweet, ripe dark fruits with a hint of leather.

The palate is dense and structured with black fruits and a cherry menthol finish.

Grapes were grown at between 400-450 metres on the upper plateau of Vinsobres facing Mont Ventoux.

2022-2025, M8 D9

2022-2030, M6 D8

Almond, vanilla, cola, red fruit

18°C

Floral, soot, rosemary

18°C

Sweet dark fruit, some leather

18°C

Green herbs, sour furit

15%

Black fruit

14.5 %

Black fruit, cherry menthol

15%

Oven-roasted chicken with Mediterranean herbs

photo — Château Montplaisir is located in the heart of Provence.

The 17th century building is a true haven of peace and gastronomy for visitors who stay in the Château's gîtes..

Roasted vegetable gratin with Asian seasoning

Dark chocolate torte with blackberry coulis

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR

41

CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE Quite a large estate with 200 hectares of vines, Château la Genestière was founded in 1930 on the site of an old silkworm farm at Tavel, an Appellation on the right bank of the Rhône specializing in dry rosé wines. It is located southwest of ChâteauneufDu-Pape, where the domaine also has vineyards on the left bank of the Rhône and nearby Appellations.

NEW

3242

CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP TAVEL, 2021

Syrah, Grenache

$ 35

REVEAL THE REMARKABLE A CONNOISSEUR’S DREAM. Exclusive to this program, Founders Choice wines are not available elsewhere in the Cellar Offering and won’t be for another five years. Dedicated to the spirit of our Founders, this program presents only the finest wines. From our producers’ cellars to yours, this is an opportunity to experience another level of quality. This case of one premium wine is curated with the potential to age.

Included in your six bottle case, you will find tasting notes and a special message from the producer to treasure. The Founders Choice producer for this Cellar is the Rhône's Château La Genestière.

$ 210

Tavel Appellation specializes in producing dark-coloured dry rosé wines which are generally rich and complex compared to other rosés – more akin to light red wine. Château La Genestière 2021 is a deep garnet colour. It is round and smooth with red berry and other ripe fruit flavours with some grip on the finish.

Grenache and Syrah grapes were left to macerate on skins for 12-24 hours. The juice was then fermented at 18°C in tank and bottled after four months for freshness.

2022-2023, M8 D9

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Via your Dashboard at Opimian.ca

Call 1-800-361-9421

Email MemberService@Opimian.ca

$$195 194 196 128 181 213 205 208 235 229

per Cellar Offering

Subtle fruits

6°C

Red berries, [2.00]

13.5 %

Soupe au pistou

3243

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP LIRAC, 2019

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

$ 37

$ 222

The 2018 was one of my coups de coeur in last year’s C283 Cellar Offering – and the 2019 is a truly suitable follow-on. Aromas of toast, vanilla, chocolate and spices lie over black fruits. It is supple and smooth with a silky texture leading to a slightly grainy finish.

More fresh black fruit flavours shine through on the palate with well-integrated oak. It has a long bitter chocolate and olive finish. Lirac Appellation, on the western side of the Rhône River, is approximately 10 kilometres north of Avignon and borders that of Tavel.

2022-2028, M6 D8 Toast, chocolate, spices, black fruits

18°C

Black fruits, bitter chocolate, olive

15%

3244

CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2017 Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Terret Noir, Muscardin, Counoise, Vaccarèse

$ 70

$ 210

Brimming with delicious dark fresh and cooked fruit flavours, the 2017 Château La Genestière Châteauneuf-Du-Pape is fine in texture with a succulent palate and good acidity. The bouquet is complex with spicy notes, coffee, raisins, black cherry, blackcurrants and smoke. It is round and smooth with a long chocolate and berry finish. A total of 18 grape varieties are permitted in the Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Appellation, although the vast majority of wines are based on two or three. This is a blend of 49% Syrah, 36% Grenache, 7% Mourvèdre, 4% Cinsault, 1% Terret Noir, 1% Muscardin, 1% Counoise, and 1% Vaccarèse.

Peppercorn steak with port sauce

2022-2030, M6 D8 Coffee, raisins, black cherry, smoke

18°C

Fresh and cooked dark fruits, chocolate

14.5%

Tournedos Rossini

photo — Carlos, the cellar master of the Domaine

de la Genestière for the past 10 years, tasting the wines in the Château's cellar room.

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE

43

CELLAR UP! WINES TO SHAPE YOUR CELLAR

Imagine getting wine advice from someone that has taken years of training, tasted thousands of wines and understands the synergy between food and wine. Imagine having this expert taste countless wines every year, recommending only the best, and giving you detailed tasting notes and food pairings.

Well, there's no need to imagine it because this is exactly what you get as a Member of Opimian. Our Masters of Wine do precisely that. Whether it's the Coups de Coeur, the featured wine, The Masters Case subscription or this regular feature, Cellar Up!, you get expert advice on every decision.

In this space particularly, you get the information you need to diversify your Cellar and try wines that are outside your typical style. Every region has styles for which they have become famous. Find them here. Experiment while enjoying the comfort of knowing that each of your choices has been tried and approved by an internationally recognized professional

SPARKLING Pairs with anything, celebrations, romance DM EXTRA BRUT DÉSIR, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU, LOT 3195, P11

A Champagne for special occasions and celebrations, it is a dry style with richness coming from the high proportion of reserve wines with flavours of peaches and honeysuckle.

MEDIUM BODY WHITE Seafood such as oysters, scallops, sashimi, or salads with mild vinaigrettes CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, VIN BIO, 2019, PART OF MIXED CASE, LOT 3207, P15

A powerful white with potential for cellaring. 2019 was a warm year in Chablis and this has flavours of plums, honey and spices.

ROSÉ Most appetizers, sipping on its own, the back deck CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP TAVEL, 2021, LOT 3242, P42

Tavel, on the right bank of the Rhône Valley, is known for its deep-coloured structured rosés. Matches equally well with food or as an apéritif.

FULL BODY RED Heavy stews, many game meats, lamb, strong cheeses, even dessert DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP RASTEAU, 2020, LOT 3228, P32

2020 has proven to be a great year across the Rhône valley. This has lots of red berry and raspberry characters with meaty savoury notes.

FIND MORE CELLAR UP! SUGGESTIONS ONLINE.

44

CELLAR 293 — CELLAR UP!

...AND FOR YOUR BAR Pommeau ODIN'S SPIRIT POMMEAU DE NORMANDIE, LOT 3257, P55

The translation for Odin is 'Master of Ecstasy'. This unique fortified wine doesn't disappoint. There's no question that you'll be the only one in your circle of friends with one of these.

DOMAINE BERTHET-RAYNE

3247

DOMAINE DES CIGALONS, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2020

Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Syrah

$ 45

$ 270

NEW

DISCOVER WHY CNP IS WORLD-FAMOUS.

3246

DOMAINE BERTHET-RAYNE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2020

Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault

$ 47

$ 282

A relatively light style, it has floral, tea leaf and plum aromas with balsamic and waxy notes. More earthy fruits emerge on the palate leading to a chewy finish. This family domaine cultivates 21 hectares on renowned terroirs of Coudoulet and Chapouin with clay-chalk soils.

Dried fruits, berries, plum and spicy aromas precede a supple palate with sour and bitter cherry flavours. This is quite a restrained Châteauneuf-Du-Pape with some chewiness and a long finish. The seven-hectare vineyard is certified organic, with this wine a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Cinsault and 5% Syrah.

2022-2026, M8 D9 Floral, balsamic, candle wax

18°C

Dried fruits, berries, plums

18°C

Earthy fruits

15%

Bitter cherry

15%

Vegan mushroom stew

photo — For 4 generations, the Berthet-Rayne family has passed on their estate from father to son, and now it is entrusted it to Christian's daughter Laure.

2022-2028, M6 D8

Pan-seared elk backstrap with plum sauce

— SOUTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE BERTHET-RAYNE

45

FRANCE

NORTHERN RHÔNE

Prestige Appellations At the northern end of the Rhône Valley, close to Lyon, the valley is narrow with vertiginous granite slopes planted to Syrah. The climate is harsher – cooler and wetter, making viticulture hard work.

46

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — The building of the Domaine du Murinais dates back to 1768. The vaulted cellars testify to the rich past of this family home.

DOMAINE DU MURINAIS

3248

DOMAINE DU MURINAIS, VIEILLES VIGNES, AOP CROZES HERMITAGE, 2020

Syrah

$ 36

$ 216 2022-2028, M6 D8

Ripe and cooked cherries, smoke, black olive

18°C

Bitter cherry

14%

Braised beef ragu with Parmesan polenta

photo — Luc and Catherine Tardy on the left, surrounded by their faithful grape pickers, who would not pass up the chance at the manual harvesting tradition.

In my view, Crozes-Hermitage in the northern Rhône is somewhat underrated. Situated on the eastern bank of the Rhône, it is quite a large area producing mainly red wines from the Syrah grape: the slopes and warmer sites can produce excellent wines.

Luc Tardy has 17 hectares in the commune of Beaumont-Monteux.

The 48-54 year-old vines are farmed organically. His 2020 has ripe and cooked cherry fruit aromas with a touch of creosote, smoke and black olive. It is supple and round, at the same time quite restrained with a fine texture and lingering bitter cherry finish.

The wine was matured in 3- to 5-year-old casks with the oak harmoniously integrated with the concentrated fruit.

— NORTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DU MURINAIS

47

DID YOU KNOW?

Rhôneology | Part 2

By Louise Wilson MW

In contrast to the blends of the south, the wines from Vienne to Valence are focused on Syrah, with each Cru in the Northern Rhône delivering its own expression.

The esteemed wines of Côte Rôtie and Hermitage are some of the finest examples of Syrah in the world. The “roasted slopes” of the Côte Rôtie, the most northernly Cru of the Rhône, produce fragrant Syrah with notes of pepper, smoke and pork crackling.

Red Hermitage is also decidedly savory and well-structured. Several years of cellaring are required to unpack the full potential top examples.

In the relatively warm micro-climate of Cornas, the wines are inky-hued, darkfruited and firm. In contrast, Syrah from Crozes-Hermitage is typically earlier drinking than the aforementioned Crus.

With generous red and black fruit and approachable tannins, they are a perfect choice for Sunday roast dinner. In the center of the Valley, both the reds and whites of Saint-Joseph provide an ideal gateway to the wines of the Northern Rhône with top producers delivering both value and approachability.

Counterpoint to Syrah, Viognier is the star white grape of the Northern Rhône. It is richly perfumed with notes of peach and nectarine. I consider Viognier the white wine for red wine drinkers because of its satisfyingly full body and affinity for oak.

World class examples come from the Northern Rhône’s Condrieu and Château-

48

CELLAR 293 — TITLE

Grillet. If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to try Rhône Viognier, this is definitely one to add to your list.

The whites of Hermitage, CrozesHermitage and Saint-Joseph are made of Marsanne and Roussanne. Marsanne is the weightier of the two grapes contributing notes of melon, nut and mineral. Roussanne, with its floral and stone fruit perfume, is harder to find because it is finicky to grow. Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne are also permitted for use in the production of specified red wines where they are co-fermented with Syrah to stabilize its colour and add aromatic lift.

If you enjoy the power of a top-shelf Argentinian Malbec, a well-made California Zinfandel or a premium Australian Shiraz and you are looking to explore the Old World, Northern Rhône reds are a great consideration. Alternatively, if you have started your journey in Bordeaux and appreciate the structure and savoury expression of a classic left bank wine, Syrah from the Rhône could be a fantastic next move. For my fellow white wine lovers who swoon over white Burgundy, I encourage you to pursue the whites of the Northern Rhône. À votre santé.

CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS PROMESSE, AOP CÔTE RÔTIE, 2019, LOT 3256, P51

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES A family domaine with 36 hectares of vines in parcels around the northern Rhône Appellations of SaintJoseph, Crozes-Hermitage and the prestigious Hermitage. It is run by Philippe Desmeure with his daughter Émilie and son Christophe.

DON'T MISS DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES' PREMIUM CUVÉES, PAGE 54.

NEW

3249

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, AOP CROZES-HERMITAGE, 2020

3251

NEW

3250

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE VIEILLES VIGNES, AOP CROZES-HERMITAGE, 2020

Syrah

$ 35 Syrah

$ 52

$ 156

Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is produced from grapes from old Syrah bush vines planted 65-70 years ago on steep slopes in the Appellation. The result is a full-bodied concentrated Crozes- Hermitage with aromas of red cherries with a touch of game. Tight in structure, more fresh and bitter cherry flavours emerge on the palate complemented by savoury oak spices. A traditional fermentation was followed by 15 months in barrel with 70% new oak and 30% one-year-old barrels.

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, AOP SAINT-JOSEPH, 2020

$ 210

A relatively light northern Rhône wine, it has intense spicy aromas with vanilla, toffee, coffee and milk chocolate over sweet red cherries. It is supple with red fruit flavours combined with floral notes, nutmeg and pine. 20- to 25-year-old vines are planted on lower lying land and trellised. It was matured in large oak vats.

2022-2030, M6 D7

Syrah

$ 42

$ 252

An oaky wine with vanilla and woody aromas dominating jammy fruits behind. It is supple with a smooth, round palate. Mellow oaky flavours are complemented by fresh cherry. Produced from grapes from vines with an average of 40 years, planted on granite slopes. Saint-Joseph is a relatively widespread Appellation in northern Rhône terms. On the right bank of the river, its best terroirs are closest to Hermitage. 2020 Domaine Des Remizières Saint-Joseph was matured in oak for 15 months with 30% new barrels and 70% one year old. It is a concentrated, polished wine with good acidity, depth, and lingering woody flavours.

2022-2028, M7 D8

2022-2030, M6 D8

Ripe cherries, game

18°C

Spices, toffee, caramel, sweet cherries

18°C

Vanilla oak, jammy fruits

18°C

Bitter and fresh cherry, savoury oak spice

15%

Red fruits, nutmeg, floral, pine

13.5%

Fresh cherry, woody

15%

Osso buco with creamy mashed potatoes

photo — Philippe Desmeure in a vineyard in the Saint-Joseph Appellation during the 2021 harvest.

Hoisin-braised barbecued spareribs

Beemster Classic

— NORTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES

49

3255

CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS, AOP SAINT-JOSEPH, 2020

Syrah

$ 39

DOMAINE PICHON Domaine Christophe Pichon at Chavanay has 23 hectares of vines in prestigious Appellations including Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu. Christophe runs the estate with his two sons Corentin and Alexis.

$ 234

An immediate Coup de Coeur, this is a complex layered wine with lots of finesse. It is mellow with ripe black fruits and savoury toasty aromas with great depth. It is smooth with a rich palate and warm, ripe fruit flavours complemented by toasty vanilla oak. Vines are cultivated on steep hillsides. Domaine Pichon has five hectares of vines planted in 1985, with 75% in the middle of the slope and 25% at the top. Matured in a combination of new and older oak barrels for 12 months.

2022-2028, M7 D8 Ripe black fruits, savoury toast

18°C

Vanilla, dark ripe fruits

14.5%

Roasted duck wings with blackberrybalsamic glaze

50

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

photo — Isabelle, Christophe and Corentin enjoy a glass of wine in their family cellar.

MIXED CASE 3256

CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS CÔTE RÔTIE/CORNAS/ CONDRIEU CASE

$ 67

$ 201

ONE BOTTLE EACH CÔTE RÔTIE, CORNAS & CONDRIEU

CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS PROMESSE, AOP CÔTE RÔTIE, 2019

Syrah, Viognier

Côte-Rôtie is the most northern Appellation of the Rhône wine region, and its hillsides are the steepest in the Rhône Valley. Domaine Pichon farms three hectares of 50-year-old vines on steep slopes of schist with Promesse a blend of several parcels. The 2019 has intense oaky aromas of coffee, spice, toast and vanilla which lie over a background of ripe dark fruits.

It is a supple mellow wine, linear in shape with succulent mid-palate fruit. Flavours of blackcurrants are complemented by smoky notes which in turn lead to a bitter savoury finish. As is the tradition in Côte-Rôtie, Syrah was co-fermented with 6% Viognier in stainless steel tanks with an extended maceration on skins for 28 days. The wine was matured in new and one-year-old barrels for 14 months.

MAISON CHRISTOPHE PICHON ALLÉGORIE, AOP CORNAS, 2020 CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS, AOP CONDRIEU, 2019

Syrah

Lots of herbal characters, mint and nettles complement aromas of blackcurrant chew and fresh vanilla. It is medium bodied with a supple succulent palate making it extremely approachable. A one-hectare plot on granite and decomposed granite soils is at 400 metres and facing southeast. It was matured in older oak barrels for 14 months, with much less apparent.

Fresh pineapple and lime aromas lead to a rich palate. It is supple with lots of ripe fruit flavours, and a broad round structure with honeyed flavours finishing on delicious lemon and lime citrus notes.

2022-2030, M7 D9

2022-2024, M8 D9

2022-2035, M6 D8

Viognier

Coffee, spices, toast, vanilla ripe dark fruit

18°C

Mint, nettles, blackcurrant, vanilla

18°C

Pineapple, lime

6°C

Blackcurrant, bitter fruit, smoky savoury

14.5%

Cherries

14.5%

Ripe fruits, lemon, lime, [2.00]

14.5%

Cinnamon and apple cider-braised shoulder of lamb

Ribeye with truffled peppercorn sauce

Gratin of mixed squash

— NORTHERN RHÔNE DOMAINE PICHON

51

SCOTLAND

Pràban na Linne ISLE OF SKYE Based on the Isle of Skye in the Scottish Highlands. The island, at 80 kilometres long, is the largest of the Inner Hebrides and is famous for its scenery and landscapes. Praban Na Linne blends sweet Speyside malts and smoky peaty malts. All are slowly matured then bottled unchillfiltered.

3273

AN LAMRAIG, BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY

Whisky

$ 55

40 %

$ 330

A blended scotch, it has fruity citrus notes with a soft rich palate.

52

CELLAR 293 — NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

3274

CÙL NA CREAGAN 12 YEAR OLD, BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

Whisky

$ 68

43 %

$ 408

Amber in colour, mellow floral and citrus with a hint of smoke. It is smooth and round with a sweet mid-palate and vanilla oak characters.

photo — Eilean Iarmain, Isle of Skye.

3275

CÙL NA CREAGAN 21 YEAR OLD, BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

Whisky

$ 107

43 %

$ 642

Oak, vanilla, and woody notes with a savoury edge. The palate is structured with more smoky and peaty characters that come through.

— SCOTLAND PRÀBAN NA LINNE

53

FROM DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES

3252

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE EMILIE, ROUGE, AOP HERMITAGE, 2020

Syrah

$ 89

$ 267

2023-2035, M6 D7 Toasty oak, coffee, vanilla

18°C

Chocolate, black cherries

14.5%

Roast pheasant with blackcurrant and beet sauce

3253

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE EMILIE, BLANC, AOP HERMITAGE, 2020

Marsanne, Roussanne

$ 83

$ 249

2022-2026, M8 D9 Spices, resin, vanilla, nectarine, green herbs

6°C

Stone fruits, citrus pith, [0.00]

14%

Pan-seared salmon with passion fruit sauce

54

CELLAR 293 — COLLECTOR’S CORNER

3257

A dense concentrated wine, it is deep-plum purple in colour. Matured for 15-18 months in new oak barrels, it has an intensely toasty oak aroma with coffee and vanilla. On the palate, more chocolate character emerges complemented by black cherry fruits. It is mediumbodied with fine-grained tannins densely knit giving a slightly grainy texture on the finish. Hermitage is one of the Rhône Valley’s – and France’s – most prestigious Appellations. Hermitage vineyards on the left bank of the Rhône are on a small south-facing hillside close to the town of Tain l’Hermitage.

At this point in the river, the Rhône flows west to east before bending again and flowing southwards towards the Mediterranean Sea.

A rich, mellow wine with bags of oak. It has aromas of banana, toffee, caramel, vanilla, toast spices and lime. The palate is broad in structure produced from 97% Marsanne and 3% Roussanne grown on 50to 60-year-old vines. It is rich and buttery with bitter fruit flavours, vanilla toast, honey and a savoury finish.

It was fermented in 60% new and 40% one-year-old oak barrels and underwent malolactic fermentation.

The wine remained in barrel for 12 months with regular “batonnage” (lees stirring).

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

ODIN'S SPIRIT POMMEAU DE NORMANDIE

Pommeau

$ 54

17%

8°C

RARE FINDS TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

$ 162

Made in Normandy in an artisanal way, this pommeau is elaborated from a variety of bittersweet apples from the Cotentin region, giving it a slightly fruity flavour. Pommeau is a French apéritif made from pressed apple juice and Calvados matured in oak barrels, giving it a beautiful amber hue. Odin, the multifaceted chief divinity of Viking mythology, embodies Jocelyn Pietrus and Léa Guy's spirit when it comes to creating outstanding liqueurs. After working in the nuclear sector for 17 years, Jocelyn moved to Normandy where he opened a restaurant and discovered the potential of local liqueurs.

The bottle evokes Norman and Norse Viking history. Amber in colour with intense aromas of baked apples and floral notes, this pommeau is sweet with lots of spicy apple flavours, tarte tatin and the like. Sweet and syrupy with a nice bitter finish. It pairs beautifully with Foie Gras.

— CELLAR 293 COLLECTOR’S CORNER

55

Web Exclusives Please visit Opimian.ca for your province's pricing on these wines.

3198

RATAFIA, DOYARD-MAHÉ DM

3272

Pinot Noir

$ WEB

$ WEB

Ratafia is a speciality fortified dessert wine produced in the Champagne region.

Mahogany in colour, it has intense complex treacle, nutty, figs and date aromas. The rich palate has flavours of treacle sponge, vanilla pod, dried apricot with savoury, nutty notes and a long tangy finish. Produced from Pinot Noir grapes and the addition of grape brandy producing 18% alcohol and 143g/l sugar, this was then matured in a solera.

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES CHUSCLAN, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

$ WEB

Lots of spicy oak, coffee, vanilla and smoke are laid over a dark fruit and green pepper background. Supple initially, it develops some grainy chewy tannins with a rather rustic finish. Chusclan is on the right bank of the Rhône, north of Tavel and Lirac.

2022-2025, M8 D9

2022-2029, M8 D9 Treacle, figs, dates

8°C

Coffee, spices, oak, green pepper

18°C

Dried apricot, nuts, [143.00]

18%

Black cherry, smoke

14.5%

Pan-seared foie gras with caramelized figs

56

CELLAR 292 293 — WEB EXCLUSIVES NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

$ WEB

Cumin and coriander-marinated veal shish kebab

3209

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE BLANC DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2021 Chardonnay

$ WEB

3210

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE ROUGE DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2021 Grenache, Syrah

$ WEB

A light refreshing dry white with fresh apple and pear flavours and a citrus tangy finish.

$ WEB

3211

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE ROSÉ DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2021 Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault

$ WEB

$ WEB

$ WEB

A medium bodied red with some structure, it is deep plum in colour with cherry yoghurt character leading to savoury and red cherries on the finish.

Pale pink in colour, it has peardrop and bonbon anglais aromas. Relatively light it is is softer and rounder than its white partner.

2022-2024, M8 D9

2022-2023, M8 D9

2022-2023, M8 D9 Apples, pears

6°C

Cherry yogurt

16°C

Peardrops

6°C

Citrus

12.5%

Red cherries, savoury

12.5%

Fresh fruit

13%

Apple, prosciutto and gruyère grilled cheese

Roasted vegetables bruschetta

Caesar salad, goat cheese tartlets, bread and humus, olives

— CELLAR 293 WEB EXCLUSIVES

57

2022 Cellar Schedule C290: Burgundy, Australia & New Zealand Opens November 9, 2021 Last day to order: December 13, 2021 Mail form by: November 30, 2021 Expected release: Spring 2022

Legend

C291: South Africa & Tuscany Opens December 14, 2021 Last day to order: January 17, 2022 Mail form by: January 3, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Red - White - Rosé - Sparkling - Port/Dessert - Spirit

Bottle size

C292: Argentina, Chile & Alsace Opens January 18, 2022 Last day to order: February 21, 2022 Mail form by: February 7, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Number of bottles in case

Aroma

C293: Rhône, Chablis, Champagne & Scotland Opens February 22, 2022 Last day to order: March 28, 2022 Mail form by: March 14, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Taste

Serving temperature

C294: Spain & Austria Opens March 29, 2022 Last day to order: May 2, 2022 Mail form by: April 18, 2022 Expected release: Fall 2022

Percent of alcohol1

Ideal with Evolution Drink this year Will develop, drink within 2 years Meant for cellaring

C295: Bordeaux, Bergerac, Beaujolais & Cognac/Armagnac Opens May 3, 2022 Last day to order: June 6, 2022 Mail form by: May 20, 2022 Expected release: Fall 2022

Body Light - Medium - Great

C296: Veneto, Puglia & Northern Italy, Germany & Corsica Opens June 7, 2022 Last day to order: July 11, 2022 Mail form by: June 27, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Oak Light - Medium - Heavy

C297: Languedoc-Roussillon, Loire & Provence Opens July 12, 2022 Last day to order: August 15, 2022 Mail form by: July 29, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Organic2

Limited quantity

Vegetarian2

Overall top 10 from last year

C298: The United States, Portugal and the Port Bottle Shop Opens August 16, 2022 Last day to order: September 19, 2022 Mail form by: September 2, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Medal winner M—Degree of Maturity (1-10) M1 = lay down M10 = fully mature

C299: Piedmont, Sicily, Le Marche, Abruzzo & Canada Opens September 20, 2022 Last day to order: November 7, 2022 Mail form by: October 25, 2022 Expected release: Spring 2023

Residual Sugar Dry = 0-10g/l Semi dry = 11-30g/l 1 2

If you have any questions or want to order, contact us: MemberService@Opimian.ca or 1 800 361-9421

D—Degree of Drinkability (1-10) D1 = needs time D10 = ready to drink Semi sweet = 31-50g/l Sweet = 51+g/l

The alcohol percentage value is subject to change before delivery.

This information is provided by our producers and may not reflect Canadian norms.

Ordering Made Easy 1. SELECT YOUR WINES Let yourself be inspired by Opimian’s Master of Wine, Jane Masters MW, and her detailed descriptions included in the Cellar Offering.

Our custom chart on the reverse side features a list of symbols to help guide your selection.

Still unsure which wines to order? Contact us!

2. PLACE YOUR ORDER There are four ways to order. The last day to order for each Cellar Offering can be found listed on the reverse. No orders will be processed after this time.

Full name _________________________________________________ Telephone ________________________________________________ Member no. ________________________________________________ Payment Methods

l Cheque Opimian.ca

1 800 361-9421

MemberService@Opimian.ca

Mail this form 14 days before end of the Cellar to Opimian Wine Club de Vin 300 - 2170 René-Lévesque West Montreal, QC H3H 2T8

l Use of wine credits

l Use credit card on file. Please go to your dashboard at Opimian.ca to update your credit card on file or contact Member Service.

Cellar Number Lot

Description

Date Number of cases

Cost/case

Total

3. LET US HANDLE THE REST The wines featured on this Cellar Offering are still at the producers’ wineries when you order them, so it is normal that the process takes a bit of time and effort on our side.

Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board and processing time required by each liquor board. For this Cellar Offering, the expected release date is listed on the reverse.

Once the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution centre, you will receive a Pick-up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick-up location.

Conditions of Purchase • Accepted payment methods: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), wine credits or cheque payable to Opimian.

• Prices include all applicable federal and provincial markups and taxes.

• A valid membership card is required to order.

• Bottle prices are for reference only. In the case of any price discrepancy between printed materials and the website, the price published on the website prevails.

• All orders are by the case, with no minimum required.

Notes, as required by the law in the Province of Quebec • A member ordering from this Cellar Offering requests that Opimian acts as the member’s agent in ordering the wines from the Société des Alcools du Québec (SAQ) and requests that Opimian remits the funds enclosed (minus any administration fees) to the SAQ to pay for the wines ordered.

• The prices as shown are the estimated costs to be charged by the SAQ plus an administration fee and consolidation charges.

Notes, as required by the law in the Province of Alberta • All purchase transactions are completed pursuant to the laws in the Province of Alberta and are between you as the customer and Rocky Mountain Wine, Spirits & Beer (“Rocky Mountain”), an independent third party of Opimian Society (“Opimian”). All charges will appear on your credit card statement as Rocky Mountain.

• You hereby acknowledge and agree that your dealings with Rocky Mountain which are not related to an Opimian purchase, including payment and all other terms, conditions, representations and warranties related to such transaction, whether implied by law or by expressed agreement between you and Rocky Mountain, are solely between you and Rocky Mountain and not Opimian. You hereby acknowledge that Opimian is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of, or in connection with, or a resulting transaction, and you hereby release and waive any claims you may have against Opimian in connection thereof.

TOTAL

Notes to Member Service ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY Processed on ________________________ (date)

Initials __________________

BOTTLE SHOP

Le

WEB EXCLUSIVES

So rare, Opimian is the only place to get this outside Champagne

Popular and familiar, no introduction needed

Back by popular demand, this was in The Masters Case last season

Folies Parisiennes L’Héritage Français, Le Blanc des Héritiers Lamblin, Vin de Pays d’Oc, 2021

LOT 3209 $20 $240

Ratafia, Doyard-Mahé DM

Folies Parisiennes L’Héritage Français, Le Rouge des Héritiers Lamblin, Vin de Pays d’Oc, 2021

LOT 3210

Château Cambis, AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages Chusclan, 2020

$19

LOT 3198

LOT 3272

$228 $62

$27

$186

$162 Folies Parisiennes L’Héritage Français, Le Rosé des Héritiers Lamblin, Vin de Pays d’Oc

LOT 3211 $19 $228

GO TO OPIMIAN.CA memberservice@opimian.ca

300-2170 RENÉ-LÉVESQUE WEST MONTREAL QC H3H 2T8 OPIMIAN.CA

1-800-361-9421