Today I am tasting the 2005 Chinon from Domaine des Rouet in France. These Loire Valley wines are commonly made of Cabernet Franc blended with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. I found this bottle for under $11.
Color
This wine has dark shades of purple and is a little thin.
Aroma
The nose of this wine is dominated by vegetables. Green pepper is present and some hints of thyme and other herbs. After smelling so many fruit driven noses lately, I find the aroma of this wine pleasing.
Flavor
The attack is dull, but the mid-palate has a lot to offer. There are sour red cherries and red raspberries and it finishes with some nice tannins. The finish shows some true lasting power which indicates to me that this wine could cellar well. If you like a wine to have flavor and not be over sugar driven, then this wine definitely qualifies. It may pair well with pasta and vegetables.
Rating
I like this wine. It is a bit plain and simple, but is decent. I suspect it won’t appeal to many palates and recommend having it with food. I rate it 86 points.
