Unlike the Coneheads, the deLorimier Alexander Valley 2001 Mosaic Red Meritage isn’t going to lie to you: it is not, in fact, from France. But while it may never have come within mille kilomètres of la République, its heritage couldn’t be any more Gallic. Its vines are figuratively rooted in the rich Frankish soil of Bordeaux and literally rooted in California’s Alexander Valley, planted on the deLorimier Estate Winery in 1972. These Franco-vines were in l’avant-garde of a veritable revolution, sweeping the old Chardonnay and Zinfandel regime out of the Alexander Valley and turning it into one of the best places in the world to grow Bordeaux grapes (after Bordeaux itself, we presume). The list of illustrious neighbors who followed the deLorimier pioneers into Alexander Valley make up a who's who in ultrapremium wine circles, but deLorimier was there first. Nyah, nyah.

Like Brigitte Bardot, the 2001 Mosaic’s firm and well-proportioned body will seduce you, thrill you, drive you mad with longing. Like Zinedine Zidane, the pungent power of its berry, cherry, and spice aromas will headbutt you right in the tastebuds. Like a couture handbag, its smooth texture and finish will make you feel like a million francs (approximately 152,449 euros). Like the multi-ethnic France of today, it blends 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 10% Malbec into one united whole, although without the race riots and neo-fascists and stuff.

If it was a person, the deLorimier Alexander Valley 2001 Mosaic Red Meritage would be carrying a baguette under one arm, chain-smoking Gauloises, and arguing the finer points of Marcuse as if its life depended on it. But don’t let that stop you. After just a few sips, even the most ardent Francophobe will hoist le drapeau tricolore and proclaim, “Vive le deLorimier Alexander Valley 2001 Mosaic Red Meritage!”

Back to top