Nestled just south of Beziers in the Languedoc-Roussilon region of France the Coteaux d’Enserune IGP is a small area consisting of limestone plateaus that make up the soil where wine grapes are grown. Hot summer days are tempered by the breeze that comes off the Mediterranean to the east. For wine geeks like myself, this spells excellent conditions for growing a variety of grapes for wine production. Known mostly for growing Grenache and Carignan. Consumers often dictate what is grown, so they have also planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, with the whites consisting of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. However, they also grow a very unusual hybrid of Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache called Marselan. The first wine I have ever tried that is 100% Marselan immediately caught my attention and is therefore my pick for September.
SEPTEMBER PICK OF THE MONTH
2016 Les Vignobles Foncalieu Ensedune Marselan (Coteaux d’Enserune, France)… $9.
Aromas of tobacco, coffee bean, blackberries, violets and plums. Solid blackberry and mashed violet notes on the palate with a strong underscore of tobacco and coffee bean. Edgy tannins are the backbone with well-integrated acidity. The finish is fresh and savory with coffee bean and tobacco notes lingering. Good balance of tannins, fruit and acidity with a good dose of minerality. Absolutely old world in style with just enough fruit to keep most palates interested. (B/B+)
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
