Domaine Fenouillet, a moderately-sized estate in the town of Beaume de Venise, France has a long-standing tradition of wine production. Patrick and Vincent Soard, the current stewards of the winery speak lovingly of their great grandfather Casimir and his pioneering work in the vineyard, work that apparently earned him a silver medal in 1902. His son Louis continued the tradition with award-winning Muscat de Beaume de Venise, of which a 1953 bottling maintains pride of place in the current cellar. Patrick’s and Vincent’s father Yvon maintained the tradition until falling ill in 1978 and becoming too sick to work in the winery. Fortunately Yvon taught his sons well and the quality of their wines is a testament to their love for the family tradition.

The estate produces a full range of wines including white AOC Vaucluse, white AOC Ventoux, rosé AOC Ventoux and red wines from AOC Beaume de Venise, AOC Ventoux and AOC Côtes du Rhône, in addition to fortified AOC Muscat de Beaume de Venise.

Interestingly, I could not find the 2009 Ventoux listed on their web site, but that doesn’t stop me from really enjoying the easy-drinking nature of the wine. Judging by the taste and the composition listed for their 2010 AOC Ventoux Cuvée Oversant, I’m guessing that the wine is largely Grenache (75%), with Syrah (20%) and Carignan (5%) to round out the party. At an average per bottle price of $10.99 the wine represents an excellent value and a perfect choice for an everyday drinking wine.

My tasting note:

Fresh, lively nose with cherry, dried herb and black pepper hints. Medium-bodied with moderate acidity and moderate, dry tannin – good balance. Black cherry, lilac and earthy tones on the palate. Quite quaffable. Moderate length with a smooth finish and cedar and spice on the aftertaste. Drinking well now and should hold for another 2 to 3 years in bottle. Great value!

Cheers!