The label for Le Botaniste appears as a story begging to be read. What tale is to be told of the mustachioed portrait of a man with the top half of his head cropped to reveal a growth of flowers and foliage? Sadly, this history remains a mystery. The label does not divulge the gentleman’s identity.
Of course, there is a botanist in the legacy of DOMAINE DE Rombeau. Dr. Henri de La Fabrègue if my hard found information is correct. Guessing the nose-to-shoulders portrait is him.
This GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) is one in a series of six wines. Each has an appropriate bouquet of blooms that relate to the type and colour of the wine. This one is Fig. 4. The flower in this case is trumpet vine. Hummingbirds extract its nectar while swallowtails hover nearby.
It’s hard to grasp the full extent of the illustration as the label wraps around the bottle. There is no single angle to see all the information. The official product shot differs from my own. It was necessary to peel the label from the bottle and scan it to best appreciate the artwork and design.
The information panel is busy. In addition to the typical terroir notes there is a unique tidbit. In the heart of the old cellars, there is an inn that serves traditional fare with wines from the estate. Interesting but where is the story of “Le Botaniste”?
GSM wines are a personal favourite. This one is dark, rich, and spicy with good length.
Despite its shortcomings and missed opportunity, the Le Botaniste label succeeds in engaging the viewer. Unexpected imagery jars the brain and commands attention. What could be more unexpected than a half-head sprouting flowers?
