Profile - Chalet Debonne's 2002 Chambourcin

The Chalet Debonne Web site describes their Chamourcin as being "medium-bodied, dry, red wine with complex, smoky, sweet black cherry aromas. Barrel aging adds softness and light oak flavors." I recently sampled this wine and found it very similar to a California Zinfandel -- robust with jammy plum and cherry overtones. It's a nice, affordable wine to go with hearty fall entrees, like stew and grilled meats.

Chambourcin is a "New World" varietal of partly French lineage, a grape that grows well in the protected micro-climate along Lake Erie.

The Debevc Family, owners of Chalet Debonne in Madison Ohio, has been crafting a variety of wines since 1916. You can visit the winery and taste their wines. Tastings range from $3 to $5.50 for three to five samples. Hours vary.

You can order the Chambourcin via the Debonne Web site or pick a bottle up at your local grocery or wine store. I got mine at Giant Eagle for $10.99. It's listed for $9.99 on the vineyard site, but then you have to pay for shipping.

^{(label courtesy of Chalet Debonne)}