Domaine Louis Magnin, Mondeuse "La Rouge" Vin de Savoie Arbin, France 2011

While prospecting in the Savoie, the search for the best Mondeuse has to be conducted in the village of Arbin, the home of this fascinating grape. In Arbin, the Domaine Louis Magnin surfaces to the top.

La Rouge has a dark center and clear violet edges. Aromas of smoke and dense earth mingle with bold dark flowers (violets and roses) on the nose. There is a hint of fresh cut cedar and raw vanilla that leads to a lingering scent of coffee. The fruit on the palate is of crisp black cherry and cassis cut by a zing of salinity and dark stones.

The structure here is rich and round, with generous but leveled tannin and good acidity. The finish is incredible, with a touch of cigar smoke and a mintiness that remains on the palate.