Chene Bleu Scipio 2018

This cuvée’s name was inspired by one of Cicero’s best-known works, ‘On the Republic’. In the final section entitled ‘Scipio’s Dream’, the philosopher recounts the dream of Roman general Scipio, in which he has to choose between two apparitions, one representing the pursuit of selfish hedonism the other virtuous purity of purpose. Should he “cash in” on his success in battle or stay true to the values of courage and tenacity that made him successful in the first place, “giving back” to create an enduring legacy? The profound, timeless themes of the treatise have inspired thinkers, opera composers and more recently authors like Ian Pears. In fact, it lies at the heart of his wonderful novel the ‘Dream of Scipio’, set in our region, between Avignon, Séguret and Vaison-la-Romaine, that still today sports a rich Roman heritage and a noteworthy archaeological museum.

On our label, you can spot Scipio sleeping under the oak tree, a reference to the famous painting by Raphael, ‘A Knight’s Dream’. The allegory portrays his dilemma, symbolized by two maidens, one representing self-indulgent blingy luxury, the other wisdom, learning and virtue. In our label we illustrated them as the peacock for Luxury and the dove for Virtue—this reflects some choices that we felt confronted with as we painstakingly restored our vineyard over more than a decade, without cutting corners, remaining devoted to the purity and purpose of our pursuit.

Tasting Note: Bright and bold garnet. Rich with notes of spice, dark chocolate, red and black fruit. Generous, gourmand and fruity, smooth with dark fruit (blackberry and blackcurrant) and velvety tannins. Long with spiced notes including pepper and licorice. Inspired by “The Dream of Scipio”, a treatise by Cicero on the values and choices that drive us. A fragrant, velvety blend of old-vine, high-altitude Grenache, Syrah and young Mourvèdre to showcase elegant aromas of spices as well as red and black fruit. Grenache noir, over 65 years old, north-west facing at 530m. Syrah, up to 55 years old, southwest facing at 40m Mourvèdre around 10 years old. Single and double cordon de Royat, 5 – 6 shoots per cordon. Certified Organic wines (Ecocert). No synthetic treatments, to ensure health of vines and soil. Certified Bee Friendly and HVE 3 sustainable viticulture (highest tier). Food Pairing: Pairs perfectly with red meat, roasted vegetables, cheese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Certification: Organic, Biodynamic

Alcohol: 14.0%

Varietal: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

Region: Ventoux, Rhone Valley, France