Florian is a talented young winemaker, who has found a property with superb potential. After working three years as an apprentice to Christophe Delorme, owner of Domaine de la Mordoree (Chateauneuf, Lirac, and Tavel), Florian approached the religious order that owned the Ch. de Manissy, which is above and contiguous to Ch. d’Aqueria in Tavel. Apparently many have tried, and been turned down by the Brothers, but in this case, they were impressed by Florian’s resume and plans.
The vintage 2004 was his first vintage, and he succeeded magnificently. I visited him in late March, and together we have put together the “Cuvee des Lys”, which RVF found to be an exceptional wine. It is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Clairette—possessing intense, vibrant color, aromas and flavor. On the attack it explodes with a cascade of fruit, and then on the finish the Clairette brings a lovely balancing and extending minerality. Different in style from Mourgues du Gres Galets Rose, it is every bit as classy. We have a new great Rose !!
Technical information available:
2006 Tavel Les Lys