The 2014 Chene Bleu Abelard is a proprietary red blend from Southern France, produced by Chene Bleu. This wine is notable for its composition of 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah, which has been aged in barrels. It features an alcohol content of 14.0% and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
The wine has received commendable reviews from prominent wine critics. Wine Spectator awarded it a score of 90, describing the wine as “elegant and complex, with layers of red currant and incense infused with cigar box, cured meat and smoked alder accents.” Additionally, Wine Spectator noted that the wine is “evolving beautifully, with a salty vein of minerality and impressive length on the finish, marked by an intriguing cumin note.” It is suggested to drink this wine now through 2026. Wine Spectator also highlights the limited availability of this wine, with only 1,000 cases produced and 150 cases imported.
Jeb Dunnuck provided an even higher score of 92, noting that the 2014 vintage was from a challenging, high-yielding year. Dunnuck described the Abelard as “a pretty, perfumed, complex, and medium-bodied effort that has both red and black fruits, lots of peppery garrigue and savory flower nuances, soft tannins, and a good finish.” He emphasized that even at ten years post-vintage, the wine remains mature yet lively and is “drinking beautifully.”
In summary, the 2014 Chene Bleu Abelard is a well-regarded red blend that offers complexity and depth. Its balance of red and black fruit flavors, combined with savory and spicy notes, makes it a noteworthy choice for wine enthusiasts. Both reviews highlight its sophisticated profile and commendable aging potential.