Tasting Notes
NOSE:
Fresh red-fruit scents such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, often layered with deeper notes of plum, dark chocolate, and black licorice.
TASTE:
Medium-to-full body with a velvety, smooth mouthfeel. The acidity is bright, giving balance to the fruit. Flavors evolve from red and dark fruit (plum, cherry) into more complex tones of dark chocolate or cocoa, sometimes touches of spice or gentle oak influence.
FINISH:
Long and smooth, with lingering dark-fruit richness and subtle oak or licorice undercurrents.
Food Pairing
This robust yet refined red blend shines alongside savory, protein-rich dishes:
Dry-aged ribeye or grilled lamb chops.
Wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil.
Braised short ribs with rosemary and garlic.
Aged Gouda or blue cheese.
Pasta with porcini ragu or Bolognese sauce.
Clos du Val Red Blend’s balance of bright acidity, red and dark fruit, and smooth tannins make it quite versatile at the dinner table. Here are some pairings that work particularly well:
Slow-braised beef or beef stew (the wine’s acidity and depth help cut through rich, meaty flavors)
Grilled or roasted red meats (steak, lamb)
Dishes with mushrooms — for example, sautéed or roasted mushrooms, mushroom-risotto, or Portobello mushrooms with butter and garlic (the earthy, umami flavors match the wine’s plum, cherry, and spice notes)
Aged or hard cheeses such as cheddar or gouda — their savory, nutty profile complements the wine’s fruit and dark-chocolate undertones