Playfully stating, "I hate Merlot", this one acknowledges that while merlot certainly has a serious side (read: Bordeaux) it also has a quite playful side. Its soft nature and round body brings femininity when blended, but on its own is also quite good. Just because it was once cool to say "I hate merlot", it's time to come around on this, and acknowledge and appreciate it for what it is. A versatile grape with lots of roles in winemaking, but can hold its own.
'Je Deteste Merlot' is produced by Les Vignerons des Roquemaure, a small, local cooperative of 50 growers, established in 1922. We love this coop for its history, character and intimate size. This is a true example of how a cooperative structure allows for access to top quality, micro-growers that would never have the ability to scale them-selves to a sustainable level independently.
