Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2016 Minervois la Liviniere la Viala is a dark, inky blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. Cola, blueberries and blackberries appear on the nose of this full-bodied, concentrated wine. Ripe and velvety, it's rich and dense, finishing with fudge-like notes that I suspect will limit its ability to age. That said, for drinking over the next few years, it will provide a thrill ride of flavor intensity.
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Wine Spectator
A generous, broad red, with olive tapenade underpinnings flanking the raspberry reduction and cherry filling flavors, infused with licorice, milk chocolate and floral accents. Hints of dried herb, cured meat and mineral are structured by polished tannins on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. Drink now through 2025.
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.