Washington Wine Club: April 2025

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2021 Le Dessein DeLille Cellars

(Carefully curated notes below are taken from the Producer’s website)

Varietal Composition: 43% Mourvèdre, 39% Grenache, 18% Syrah

Location: Columbia Valley AVA

Cellar Aging: Drink now or cellar until 2029

Accolades: 93 Points— Tim Fish, Wine Spectator

Tasting Notes 

Our 2021 Le Dessein is packed full of vibrant fruit aromas like wild strawberry, black plum and fresh raspberry. The palate begins softly and effortlessly transitions to a plush mid-palate backed by energetic acid, and finishes with broad tannins. Syrah contributes a gamey quality and sweet smoke, while the Mourvèdre brings big brambly flavors. The Grenache brightens the blend and is responsible for candied red fruit flavors.

Food Pairing

Spanish Paella — Roasted, spice-driven vegetable dishes like Spanish Paella, Moroccan Chicken or Smoked Cauliflower Steaks are fantastic pairing options. We recommend avoiding seafoods, however Tuna and even Salmon with rich sauces can pair nicely.

A Few More Details

Nowhere is crafting a wine of intention more evident than in Le Dessein (the purpose), a wine mirrored after traditional Southern Rhone-style blends. This wine combines old world characteristics with the focus and ripe terroir of the Columbia Valley. In the true spirit of its namesake, the goal in crafting Le Dessein is for the expression of each varietal to be elevated within the blend. First vintage 2005, (formerly known as Métier).

2021 Doyenne DeLille Cellars

(Carefully curated notes below are taken from the Producer’s website)

Varietal Composition: 49% Syrah, 35% Cab Sauv, 15% Grenache, 1% Mourvèdre

Location: Columbia Valley AVA

Cellar Aging: Drink now or cellar through 2033

Accolades: 94 Points— Tim Fish, Wine Spectator

Tasting Notes!

The marriage of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache is quite agreeable in this 2021 effort of Doyenne that offers aromas of blackberry, cassis, graphite and green peppercorn. The meaty, dark-fleshed Syrah is framed beautifully by the firm structured Cab, while the Grenache adds a floral lift and bright red fruit undertones. The palate is dense and nicely weighted, yet still has good energy that leads to a lengthy finish.

Food Pairing

Roasted meats are a particularly wonderful match for Doyenne – Braised Lamb, Seared Duck Breast, Stews and Game.

A Few More Details

The city of Aix-en-Provence is where the first great French wine region was formed & the art of blending is steeped in history. Doyenne (meaning wise or senior) is a tribute to this ancient region & respected practice. Originally crafted by Executive Winemaker Chris Upchurch for his wedding, this blend of Syrah & Cabernet Sauvignon is true to the Doyenne name and the region that inspired its creation. 

Source: https://delillecellars.com/