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Carolyn Hetke

Carolyn Hetke

Domaine De Nizas Le Clos

Francois Lurton Domaine De Nizas Le Clos Rouge 2023

Languedoc Roussillon, France
20 days ago

Carolyn scored this wine: 89/100

This Syrah-dominant blend has Grenache (20%), Mourvedre (15%) and Carignan(5%), creating a rich, approachable red. The nose has pleasant violet, spice and talc notes. The palate is fruity, dominated by plum notes, and textured by velvety tannins and chalky elements. There is a hint of astringency on the finish. Enjoy with rack of lamb or duck. Tasted April 30, 2026. (thewineloverskitchen.com)

Domaine De Nizas Mazet De Nizas

Francois Lurton Domaine De Nizas Mazet De Nizas Rouge 2023

Languedoc Roussillon, France
20 days ago

Carolyn scored this wine: 88/100

This 80/20 Syrah/Cab Sauv blend is medium-weight and easy-going. The nose has enticin violets, plum and spice. The plum carries over to the palate, which is smooth and approachable. Tannins are soft and smooth, only adding some weight and texture since there was no oak used in the maturation. Enjoy with patio fare, charcuterie or on its own. Tasted 30 April 2026. (thewineloverskitchen.com)

Mazet De Nizas

Domaine De Nizas Mazet De Nizas Blanc 2023

Languedoc Roussillon, France
20 days ago

Carolyn scored this wine: 91/100

This delightful blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Viognier delivers smokiness on the nose with hints of white flowers and minerality. The palate is round and smooth with mineral undertones and a pleasant texture. Volcanic soils, small barrel and concrete treatments all add complexity to the final product. And, the secret weapon may be that Francois Lurton, in his constant quest to find ways to add complexity, confesses to adding a small percentage (3-5%) of orange wine to his blends. It all pays off in an enticing pour with an impressive finish in both length and flavour. Enjoy with roast chicken or calamari. Tasted 30 April 2026. (thewineloverskitchen.com)

Domaine les Fumées Blanches

François Lurton Domaine les Fumées Blanches Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Côtes De Gascogne I.G.P., France
20 days ago

Carolyn scored this wine: 91/100

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc reflects the limestone/clay soils of Gascogne nicely. Citrus, mineral and floral aromas mingle pleasantly. The palate is showing bright lemon, grapefruit, and minerality, all enhanced by an interesting, taut edge. Time on the lees and maturation in small amphoras and barrels add some texture and complexity. The finish is pleasant and long. Pair this refreshing Sauvignon Blanc with smoked trout, oysters or roasted chicken. Tasted 30 April 2026. (thewineloverskitchen.com)

20 days ago

Carolyn scored this wine: 89/100

The 2024 Fumées Blanches is a refreshingly crisp Sauvignon Blanc with zesty fruit at the fore. White flower aromas floating over gooseberry and grapefruit are balanced by bright green notes. The palate is round, but pronounced grapefruit notes give a tangy edge. It is a delightful wine at a very attractive price. Pair it with light seafood or enjoy on its own. Tasted 30 April 2026. (thewineloverskitchen.com)

Carolyn Hetke

Food BloggerVisit Carolyn's Website

Memorable Wine

A Châteauneuf-du-Pape we had with dinner at Château des Fines Roches. I admit the ambiance probably had a lot to do with the 'memorable' part!

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First Wine

Probably Baby Duck but in all fairness it would have been at the kid's table at Christmas!

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Unusual Wine Experience

Exploring an organic Tuscan winery where there was literally inches of mould on the bottles.

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Current Fav Wine

Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Bordeaux.....That is like asking a mother to choose their favourite child!

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Winner World's Best Drink Writer
WFour-Time Winner James Beard Foundation
Five-Time Winner Association of Food Journalists
Six-Time Winner Bert Greene Award
Best Wine Literature Book Gourmand World Cookbook Awards
Online Writer of the Year Louis Roederer International Wine Writing Award