Nice: December 2024
Yves Lecia
Rose
From Corsica
Yves Leccia has a certain presence and noble bearing to him, much like his wines. In France they have often been referred to as the “Rolls-Royce” of Corsican wines, a reputation earned after nearly 30 years of making consistently elegant and sophisticated wines. Here we have one of the best roses I have tried this year yea, from a grape called Niellucciu. Herbaceous, zippy, and perfect for a holiday table.
Pairing: Herby Sweet Potato Soup & Peanuts
Fun fact: Yves has been known to be the last one standing on the dance floor.
Fabien Duveau
Saumur-Champigny
Cab Franc from the Loire
Duveau’s wines have excited me more than any other producer I have tried from the Loire in my entire career. Fabien is the neighbor to the famed Clos Rougeard (whose wines are in the hundreds of dollars) and I think is honestly producing wines at the same quality level. I tried them side by side, blind, and I believe that Fabien is now the king of Cabernet Franc.
Pairing: Steak Diane
Fun fact: One of the main chemical compounds in Cabernet Franc is the same as bell peppers.
Alain Grailot
Crozes Hermitage
Syrah from the Northern Rhone
Grailot’s wines are one of the few that I buy as much as I can every year. This is the pinnacle of Syrah. Graillot is godfather of wines from Corzes Hermitage, crafting wines that are elegant yet powerful, juicy yet firm. Think dark berries, smoked meats, and olives.
Drink now or hold onto it for decades.
Pairing: North African Bean Stew
Fun fact: This part of the Northern Rhone is the windiest place in France.