2022
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Faugères
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| Dry red - medium/full bodied, aged in steel vats |
Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Mourvedre
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13.0%
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Grilled red or white meats, pasta, risotto
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Even better
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Now, or to 2028 and beyond
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A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan from north and east facing terraces of the highest vineyards in the Faugères appellation, plus Mourvèdre from slopes facing south, towards the full sun. It is a junior "sibling" to Les Bancels, designed for slightly earlier drinking, which winemaker Brigitte Chevalier describes as a "bistro wine". That said, this latest vintage has a little more weight - not to mention a good deal more complexity - than previous vintages. Cherry red colour, bright, almost translucent. The nose is at the same time savoury and floral, with plenty of bright, fresh strawberry and bramble fruit aromas, with underlying notes of leather, damp earth, curry spices and freshly-baked bread. The palate is delightfully fleshy and ripe, but with plenty of depth and interest - sweet-sour red and black fruit flavours, infused with herbs of the garrigue and the merest hint of saline minerality. The tannins are really quite fine, whilst offering plenty of grip, with ample cherry skin acidity keeping it all together. The finish is long and tangy/herby, making for a beautifully balanced and focused wine. In many ways, this is more elegant and lighter on its feet than Les Bancels, but certainly (in my opinion) more than just a bistro wine. It really is delicious! |
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