Cuvée du Vatican Réserve de l’Abbé 2016
Côtes-du-Rhône AOC, France
Dodsworth (1936)
THURSDAY, MAY 3 @ 09:30 PM (ET)
One of the most literate, sensitively acted, and beautifully directed movies of the 1930s, this William Wyler film drama is, like this French red, a classic blend of elements. Stars Walter Huston, Ruth Chatterton, and Mary Astor impressively tell the story of an automotive magnate and his turbulent personal life. It’s a richly textured film and worthy of a wine of such smooth, rich character.
THE WINE
THE REGION
The northern Rhône Valley is cool, steep-sloped, and known for peppery Syrah. As the Rhône River winds its way south, things get much warmer and Grenache thrives. The region’s signature vineyard feature: galets roulés. These giant, suntrapping stones radiate heat back to vines at night, helping grapes ripen more evenly, ideal for the development of complex aromas and flavors.
WITH FOOD
To locals, game is a common (and very tasty) pairing for reds like this. Venison stews, roasted wild duck, or boar sausages would all be fantastic. If game meats are hard to come by or don’t appeal, beef or meaty pastas are also top picks. Earthy vegetable casseroles with barley and garlic are a super choice for vegetarians and will be a tasty foil to the wine’s wild herb notes.