Biodynamic. This wine is named in honour of the 11th-century Persian poet, philosopher, booze hound and mathematician Omar Khayyam. This vibrant, supple bottling comes entirely from a single highland plot above the house at the top of the Saint Marcel d'Ardèche plateau. Surrounded by forest, the site is littered with galets roulés and was planted between 1960 and 1980—mainly to Grenache, with 15% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. Some 50% of the wine aged in large casks on lees, bringing a seductive, supple, layered texture to the bright, food-friendly structure.
We’re gonna hypothesise that old Omar, a card-carrying hedonist, would appreciate this vintage. It’s an opulent, fleshy release loaded with dark cherry, dusky florals and Moroccan spice notes framed by sufficient tannins to give shape to the fruitiness. Hélène introduces this wine as her most oriental, the spiciest, the sultriest; it makes perfect winter drinking paired with stews and slow-cooked braises. If you're feeling adventurous, hunt down some caul fat from Jerome and Annabelle Hoban and tackle the region’s delicacy, Caillette. P.S. Decant for at least an hour (the longer, the better) before serving.