CorkRules - Episodes | Rochambeau Rochambeau

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About this Episode

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, joins Robert Tas explore the wine list at Rochambeau, a classic French brasserie with a contemporary twist. The vibe here is vibrant, fun and young. French wines dominate the wine list, and you can explore wines from various regions to sample the nuances of each distinct terroir

Wines reviewed include:

2020 Jadix Picpoul de Pinet, Languedoc
2018 Chateau des Jacques, Morgon, Burgundy
2019 Domaine Serge Laporte Sancerre Rouge, Loire Valley

Transcript: Rochambeau

Rochambaud

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!

A podcast where, in each episode, we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I’m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela, it’s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let’s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine list’s because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well… it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT: So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Rochambeau. Located in the Back Bay of Boston, Rochambeau is a two-floor, French Brasserie and café featuring French classics with contemporary style.

Michaela, I can’t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: I love the design of Rochambeau with their outdoor patio, spacious booths, and private dining area. Their wine list is of equal style, and of course, we have found many stand-out favorites from their French dominate list.

RT: That’s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: We know by now that I love bubbly. Let’s kick off our experience at Rochambeau with a glass of J Laurens Cremant de Limoux #7 Sparkling Rose. Cremant means sparkling wine produced outside of the Champagne region, and in this case, the region of Limoux, located in the Languedoc. This dry, sparkling rose is a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Pinot Noir and features aromas and flavors of red cherries and strawberries. A perfect aperitif or to pair with cheeses.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Another standout is the 2020 Jadix Picpoul de Pinet from the Languedoc. The picpoul grape produces dry, light to medium-bodied, white wines with bright acidity and aromas and flavors of lime zest, grapefruit, and cantaloupe. This is a wonderful pairing for lighter fare, and seafood.

RT: So, Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a “must-try”?

MQ: For our red wine fans, a must-try is the 2018 Chateau des Jacques, Morgon from Burgundy, specifically Beaujolais. Morgon is Beaujolais’ second largest Cru that produces excellent red wines from the gamay grape that features aromas and flavors of earth, spice, nutmeg, and ripe, red cherries. One to consider for pairing with pastas and proteins.

RT: These are some great calls.

So, you know I’m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: A consideration for the table would be the 2019 Domaine Serge Laporte Sancerre Rouge. Sancerre, located in the Loire Valley, not only produces stellar sauvignon blanc, but also spectacular Pinot Noir. This Pinot noir is medium-bodied with aromas and flavors or ripe raspberries and cherries, with notes of earth on the finish. A structured pinot noir to pair with any of Rochambeau’s lunch and dinner options.

RT: Ooh, Terrific.

Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind. any other great value wines you’d point us to?

MQ: Of course! We have two selections for consideration today. The first being the 2018 Domaine Lavigne Saumur Blanc, also from the Loire Valley. This Saumur Blanc consists of 100% Chenin Blanc which exudes aromas of white flowers with flavors of white peach and dried apricot. This medium-bodied white wine pairs beautifully with dense fish such as tuna and swordfish, along with crab and lobster – all at an excellent price.

RT: Sign me up! What other great values did you find?

MQ: An excellent quality meets value wine from the Southwest of France is the 2016 Domaine Lavaur Cahors. Cahors, along with Bordeaux, produces some of the earliest Malbec vines. This medium to full-bodied red wine showcases ripe strawberries, blackberries, cassis, with notes of oak and black pepper on the finish. This Malbec would make an excellent companion to herbed sauces, pastas, and proteins.

RT: Now, Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: Rochambeau is a lively environment to celebrate just about anything. Like their menu, I will stay true to France, and recommend the legendary Krug 169 Brut Champagne. This is Krug’s 169th edition of their Grand Cuvee. Krug has been producing this stellar Cuvee since 1843. The 169 consists of a blend of 146 wines from 11 years ranging from 2000 to 2013, resulting in the blend of 43% pinot noir, 35% chardonnay, and 22% pinot munier. The floral nose with flavors of almond, citrus, and brioche would certainly pair well seafood, spicy dishes, as well as dessert. A special blend for any special event.

RT: Michaela, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Rochambeau’s wine list. I can’t wait to go try them myself.

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: Info@CorkRules.com or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

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