This is my first wine from the Minervois region I’m sorry to say as they offer great early drinking values from the Southern part of France.
A little background…
Located in the Western part of Languedoc, Minervois was granted AOC status in 1985. The appellation gets its name for the city of Minerve with viticulture activities dating back to the Roman Empire. Wines coming from Minervois must be comprised of at least 20% of Mourvedre or Syrah, with other grapes adding to the blends such as Grenache, Carignane and Cinsault. The Minervois which has the shape of a large amphitheater, lies 30km from the ocean giving it a nice Mediterranean climate of hot dry summer and cool winters.
Wine stats for the 2007 Lorgeril L’Enclos des Bories Minervois Rouge
Grapes – 80% Syrah, 20% Grenache
Ageing – Temperature controlled concrete vats
Soil – Schist and Limestone
My Tasting Notes
Color – Deep garnet
Nose – chalky, blueberry and blackberry
Taste – blueberry, red currant, vanilla and black pepper
Mouthfeel – light to medium body, bright acidity and smooth with a good dose of tannins
Finish – short and fruity
This was very fruity and easy drinking although surprisingly tannic compared to the other components of the wine. This is not to say that the tannins were overpowering, just surprising. The black pepper on the back end of the palate was very nice and provided for a good spicy finish, a nice contrast to the overall fruitiness of the wine. Ranging between $10 and $15 the Minervois wines from Lorgeril look to offer some great values from the region.
Cheers!
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