2012 Clos Solene Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve
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Guillaume pulled back on the 100% new oak aging regime, and the 2012 Hommage a Nos Pairs was aged 17 months in 70% new French oak. A blend of 94% Syrah, 4% Grenache and 2% Viognier that was barrel fermented (5 weeks), it offers thrilling black raspberry, creamy licorice, sweet oak and graphite to go with a full-bodied, ultra-pure, layered and textured feel on the palate. It’s not cheap, but there’s only 110 cases to go around and it’s an awesome drink. Plan on drinking bottles over the coming 4-5 years. Winemaker Guillaume Favre made the most of the 2012 vintage, and these new releases show the supple, pure quality of the vintage, yet have superb mid-palate depth and richness. In addition, Guillaume has now left l’Aventure to focus exclusively on his Clos Solene label. Tel. (805) 296-0478; www.clossolene.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
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The 2012 Hommage a Nos Pairs is rich and super-expressive to the core. This is one of the riper 2012s in this range of intense, racy wines. Dark red cherries plums, cloves and mint are given an extra kick of volume and sweetness by the 70% new French oak barrels. Ripe, silky tannins support the polished finish. The blend is 93% Syrah, 5% Grenache and 2% Viognier.