Hubert Valayer is the fourth generation of the family at this domaine. However, he has also spent time making wine in California and has brought this experience to his wine making back home, along with his West Coast rock star image and a mean Harley Davidson.
The geology around Vinsobres is near identical to that of Chateauneuf du Pape, just marginally further north, higher and therefore cooler. This has led many to regard it as the next 'big' appellation of the Rhone. This, along with Hubert's passion for natural character and pure expression of terrior means he is a rising star well worth following.
DOMAINE DE DEURRE Vinsobres (2006) 70% Grenache / 20% Syrah / 10% Mourvedre
25-60 year old vines.
A very silky feel to this wine - the fruit has a lovely purity as well which is a good counter point to all the dark meaty spice both on the nose and palate. It is quite macho gripy but this seems to fit the wine well. A glorious dark bitter chocolate finish. A wine of interesting contrasts.
DOMAINE DEURRE Cotes du Rhone BLANC (2009) 30% Viognier / 20% Marsanne / 20% Roussanne / 15% Clairette / 15% Bourboulenc
Herbacious, slightly oily peach notes on the nose. Savoury on the palate with a good apple crunch to it. Some soft citusy notes and more of those herbs follow. Refreshing.