This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Those who enjoy wine, beer and cocktails are always looking for new things to try. We asked Ian Campbell, the general manager and wine expert at Log Haven, to tell us about one of his recent discoveries:
Recommendation • 2010 Gassier, Costieres de Nimes, Nostre Pais White, a blend of three different varietals from the famed Rhone region of France. The primary grape is Grenache Blanc with touches of Roussanne and Viognier.
Why do you like it? • "For the price, it delivers a whole lot of character. It has vivid honeysuckle, citrus and tropical fruit aromas. It's balanced with good acid and a nice crisp, fresh taste. Delightful in the summer, but it's got enough 'stuffing' to drink year round and stand up to richer dishes."
What makes it interesting? • "The vineyards and land in the Rhone region have an incredibly long wine history. Wine has been made in the Southern Rhone for over 2,000 years. Both the Greeks and the Romans made wine from grapes native to this area. But the Costieres de Nimes appellation is rather obscure and went unnoticed for most of the 20th century. As wine became more popular and prices from well-known regions skyrocketed, winemakers went looking for less costlier terroir. Costieres de Nimes is one such appellation, delivering high quality wines at affordable prices."
Food Pairings • Halibut, soft shell crab, chicken with herbs.
Cost • $17.99 in Utah wine stores.