Domaine Jaume is one of Moore Brothers’ larger and more modern producers, but one taste of the Collines told me all I needed to know—they make lovely, traditional Rhône wines. The Domaine was founded in 1905 and is based in the recent Côtes du Rhône Cru Vinsobres. Claude Jaume’s father, Pierre, was the architect in getting Vinsobres its Côtes du Rhône appellation status in 1939.
Today, Pierre’s grandsons Richard and Pascal Jaume (who both studied oenology in Beaune), make the wines of Domaine Jaume. Moore Brothers sells four of their wines, Friande Côtes du Rhône 2006, Les Collines (red and white), and Vinsobres. All are excellent values, but the Collines is a stellar buy at less than fifteen dollars.
Les Collines Rouge is Grenache based, with Syrah completing the blend. The vines are 15 to 20 years old and are planted on chalky-clay soil, which give the wine its depth and character.
Last night I had steak for dinner and this beauty was up for the challenge: black cherry fruit, smooth tannins, with just enough pepper and earth to round out the palate. The wine is balanced, unlike most Rhône wines in its price range, and is is elegant enough for your turkey leftovers, yet satisfied my need for a hearty “steak wine.”
Les Collines is a great everyday red for the winter. Enjoy!