Having been in the wine industry since 1984 I have developed a decent pallet. My particular interests are in the wines of Southern France from which I have witnessed enormous improvements in the quality of these wines. Previously unfashionable appellations are turning out barn-storming wines of incredible quality. It is in fact becoming increasingly more difficult to find bad wines.

Progressive producers are endorsing the latest technologies of both viticulture and vinifaction to produce outstanding wines.

I recently read an article by Andrew Jefford in December’s Decanter where he extols the virtues of Chateau Unangs’ proprietor  James King, an Englishman who now orchestrates one of the best Rhone Valley wines from the unfashionable appellations called Cotes de Ventoux. I contacted James and asked if he would be kind enough to let me have some samples. The whites are not ready until the Spring of 2012 he explained. However he obliged with several samples. Yes I really do this for a living. The Chateau La Croix 2009, Mr Jefford tasted the 2006 in magnums was frankly one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted. I am serious when I say that. Full of fruit, powerful and yet with a remarkable natural sweetness.  I am told that this comes as a result of low yields, rigorous berry selection, long fermentation of up to 3 weeks which gives far more structure to support the fruit.

When you consider the prices being charged in the more famous appellations of the Rhone, Bordeaux and Burgundy then James King’s Chateau Unang is a revelation to behold.

Please click here to see the extensive tasting notes.