Paul Jaboulet Aîné Côtes du Rhône Parallele 45

A classic since 1950, Parallèle 45 is celebrated around the globe and is one of France’s most recognizable wines. Parallèle 45 is named after the 45th parallel, a famous circle of latitude that marks the midpoint between the equator and the North Pole. It also passes over the cellars of Paul Jaboulet Aîné. The Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Mourvèdre grapes for Parallèle 45 are farmed organically. They grow on 40-year-old vines in clayey limestone and alluvial deposits composed of round pebbles. The grapes are destemmed, crushed, and the juice undergoes fermentation. The wine is then aged for 6 months in stainless steel vats and tronconic (truncated cone-shaped) oak vats on fine lees. Tasting notes: Garnet red with purple hues, this fruit-forward wine has notes of strawberry, red currant, peony and dried roses and an elegant finish. Pairs well with: Lasagna with Mediterranean vegetables, fondant au chocolat