We’ve spent the last few days tasting across the Southern Rhône Valley. In this era of hot, dry summers and abundant ripeness, a winemaker’s primary task is divining freshness. Across the dozens of Rhône reds we’ve tasted this week, it’s clear that some are more successful than others.
One winemaker with a clear knack for this is Eric Chauvin of the Domaine le Souverain. His red Séguret is always vibrant and full of energy, a blend of grenache and syrah with no oak. Chauvin’s Chauvin’s tiny Domaine le Souverain has no website, and (until this year!) no road signs — his cellar is a converted garage. But his wines have more complexity and depth than nearly anything else we taste at their level, and manage to remain a bargain.
We’ve already imported Souverain’s 2023 Séguret, but Eric poured it for us again yesterday, and it’s as good as ever. Dark, inky berry fruit explodes from the glass, and on the palate the wine pulsates with life and energy. Eric credits careful organic viticulture with his success and we don’t doubt him. The nose both fresh and intense, with notes of crushed berries, lavender, and a cool earthiness. The mouth is smooth, friendly, and refreshing – clean dark fruit, just the right amount of tannin, and a smooth, easy finish.
This was outstanding yesterday, and thanks to a good sized crop there are a few cases left already available in Newton – and we plan to add more shortly. Pour this to welcome the arrival of spring.
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Souverain Séguret 2023
bottle price: $22
