Winemaker Notes
A great match for roasted lamb with herbs; pork with black olives and thyme.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Crafted from vines planted on sandstone, marl and limestone soils, the 2022 Minervois Les Fontanilles, a blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Cinsault, evokes aromas of dark berries, spices, Provence herbs, licorice and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and layered, it's perfectly balanced, with sweet tannins and concluding with a long, spicy and mineral finish. Rating: 92+
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Recognized for its concentrated and sultry reds made predominantly of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah, this western Languedoc appellation is also famous for the charming and delicate fortified Vin Doux Naturel called Muscat de St. Jean de Minervois. The dry rosé and white wines of Minervois are also worth seeking out.