Winemaker Notes
Crimson color, dark, black highlights. Complex, elegant, iris aromas, violet aromas, almond aromas, morello cherry aromas, generous guarrigue aromas. Fresh, generous, full-bodied, subtle flower overtones, intense red fruit hints, generous spice hints, soft tannin, light body, good intensity, long length.
Pair with delicatessen meats, game,grilled entrecote steak, hard cheeses or as an aperitif.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Mostly Mourvèdre (80%), with 20% Syrah, the 2017 Minervois le Vin de Plume offers intriguing aromas of dried spices, garrigue, even something floral that approaches lilacs in character. In the mouth, the wine delivers mixed berries, herbs and spices, a medium to full-bodied palate, ample concentration and a long, dusty finish. It's one of the more interesting wines I tasted from Minervois this year.
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.