Domaine Serol
Domaine Serol Rose, Cabochard Rose, Cote Roannaise, Gamay, 2024
The Cote Roannaise is an incredible region that is a volcanic influenced higher elevation area of the Loire Valley. Technically. However it’s pretty far south compared to Sancerre, and closer-ish to Beaujolais. The primary grape that is grown is Gamay, however it is a riff or twin sister to the Gamay that we know and love in Beaujolais and is often referred to as Gamay Saint Romain. The difference between the two comes down to the spacing of the berries and the yield of the fruit, overall Gamay Saint Romain is a little less forgiving and needs more romance to coax the fruit out of it. It is Gamay none the less and from this glorious fruit this excellent and surprising rose is made. It’s bubble gum pink but has its eye on the prize. Stephane and Carine are the current custodians of the vines and the cellar, however their family has been making wine here since the 17th century. I think they are by far the most biodynamic and organic of the growers in this area but times are and techniques are shifting. With the advent of climate change this area is actually coming into focus for many people who claim the wines have never tasted better. This rose is bone dry and has some essence of cranberry in there but overall it's an ocean spray on a sunny day. An absolute dream...