WINE at BLUE SPOON

                                                                   Dombek photo © 2012

Camas Chardonnay

Cave Anne de Joyeuse

Vin de Pays, Pays d'Oc

Languedoc-Roussillon, France

100% Chardonnay

I came across this simply delicious, unprentious summer white at the Blue Spoon the other evening.  What a lovely surprise!  A medium light gold in color, this wine has light floral notes on the nose.  Just a hint of grapefruit/citrus lends lively acidity and zippy minerality.  Pretty and feminine with playful notes of kiwi fruit, pear and nectarine, this is luscious with a crisp, clean finish.  It sees some partial, neutral oak, which lends texture, incredible body and mouth feel, rather than imparting any oaky flavor.  This still has a lightness about it, even with all that body and goes splendidly with David’s Maine shrimp with capers and lemon appetizer.  Love connection!  $8/glass.

The name “Camas” is actually the name of the flower pictured on the label.  The vineyard, Cave Anne de Joyeuse is located in Limoux, one of the highest elevations in all of southern France.  Influences from 3 sub-regions include Mediterranean, Oceanic and Pyrenean, and provide warm days and cool nights - great for acidity.  Since 1994, the vineyard’s small group of winegrowers, passionate about their vines, their region and countryside, have also protected the biodiversity of their environment and terroir using various sustainable farming methods, including the use of solar energy.  

David Iovino/Chef Owner & Rebecca/Server Extraordinaire

Okay, back to the local aspect ... admittedly, the Blue Spoon is my favorite neighborhood hang-out for a great glass (or two ... or...) of wine and delicious bite to eat.  The bar is intimate and inviting, one where you can easily strike up a conversation with someone new, as well as have a few words with chef & staff!  And also an establishment that supports delicious and unique wines such as this.  Surely more to come here!  Special prices on specific wines during Wine Time: M–SAT, 4:30–6:00.  Located at 89 Congress St. on Munjoy Hill. (207)773-1116.  http://bluespoonme.com/is_good/#section2

This wine comes to us through CRUSH Distributors, a woman-owned distributorship servicing Maine and New Hampshire, providing unique, artisan wines produced by great vineyards and the people who farm them.  http://www.crushwinesllc.com/

Camas  Chardonnay may also be found at 50 Local in Kennebunkport and Downeast Beverage on Commercial Street in Portland.