Winemaker Notes
Les Coteaux is a Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre blend, from vines that average 20 years of age. After just a few vintages, the wines being produced at the Mas Belles Eaux estate are already considered some of the finest in the appellation.
A dark, intense color. On the palate, the wine is round, supple and full-bodied. The aromas of black fruit and spices will be a sheer lasting delight for the taste buds. It is best laid down for 2 to 10 years. It will go very well with wild fowl (duck, woodcock,pheasant, etc.), spicy dishes and cheese.
Blend: 70% Syrah, 20% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Overlooking the Peyne river valley, this winery/farm and its cellars were built in the 17th century. Numerous springs around the estate inspired the name Belles Eaux, which translates to “beautiful waters.” This Syrah-dominant blend also comprises Grenache and Mourvèdre; the grapes were sourced from vines averaging 70 years old. The structure is upright with an underlying creaminess from 15 months of barrel aging. Flavors of meaty, spiced plum arrive on the heels of rich, gamey aromas.
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.
An extensive appellation producing a diverse selection of good quality and great values, Languedoc spans the Mediterranean coast from the Pyrenees mountains of Roussillon all the way to the Rhône Valley. Languedoc’s terrain is generally flat coastal plains, with a warm Mediterranean climate and frequent risk of drought.
Virtually every style of wine is made in this expansive region. Most dry wines are blends with varietal choice strongly influenced by the neighboring Rhône Valley. For reds and rosés, the primary grapes include Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. White varieties include Grenache Blanc, Muscat, Ugni Blanc, Vermentino, Macabéo, Clairette, Piquepoul and Bourbelenc.
International varieties are also planted in large numbers here, in particular Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The key region for sparkling wines here is Limoux, where Blanquette de Limoux is believed to have been the first sparkling wine made in France, even before Champagne. Crémant de Limoux is produced in a more modern style.