Ôcave’s Wine Odyssey

ÔcaveÔcave is the result of a meeting between enthusiasts who are constantly on the lookout for new nuggets to share with us without moderation. Their adventure, which began in 2018, is echoed in this creation, which has its origins in a meeting between two winegrowers.

From Bordeaux, Pierre Graffeuille, director of Château Léoville Las-Cases, and his friend in the Rhône, Matthieu Dumarcher, created an atypical blend in 2015: Carbernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Mourvèdre are the three grape varieties that make up this tailor-made wine. The historical journey between the two terroirs reveals the power of Carbernet Sauvignon and the delicacy of Grenache. The first is planted on the hilly, gravelly hilltops of the Medoc, while the second is cultivated using the gobelet pruning method, which keeps the vines close to the ground and protects the bunches from sunburn. The two grape varieties are blended together, and to ensure a balanced marriage, they have added Mourvèdre, which brings all its freshness to this sunny cuvée.

Only 9,230 bottles, all numbered, were produced for the 2019 vintage. It’s a fresher year than others, which makes for a wine that’s better suited to laying down than when sugar is more prevalent. On the palate, we find both the spiciness of a Syrah and the peppery notes of a Cabernet, but above all complexity and pleasant length. To perfectly accompany these aromas, Maxime Provini suggests we choose a filet of beef from the Halle de Rive, GRTA potatoes steamed and then roasted in butter, and kidney beans, also harvested in Geneva, of course! The richness of the menu will support the wine and allow it to express itself fully. The little extra according to our caviste: don’t be afraid to open the bottle early – 2 to 3 hours before the meal is ideal!