L'Ostal Cazes Estibals Minervois 2013
Product Details
Your Rating
Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
The Cazes family name has long stood for vision and dedication to top-flight winemaking. Now, this internationally-renowned winemaking family has set its sights on southern France, lured by the promise of the vineyards of Languedoc.
After much searching, Cazes, with Lynch Bages' chief winemaker Daniel Llose, discovered an exceptional site on the terraces of La Livinière and purchased a 370-acre property that enjoys the benefits of warm Mediterranean sunshine and the night time coolness of the Causse plateau.
Cazes renamed the property "L'Ostal Cazes" as L'Ostal means both family and family house in the ancient "langue d'oc." Under the leadership of Jean-Michel's son, Jean-Charles, the vineyard has undergone a complete renovation including new trellising, replanting, and the installation of state-of-the-art equipment designed to produce top quality wines.
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.