Appellation: AOC Madiran (South-West France region)
 
Grapes: Tannat (60%), Cabernet Franc (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%)
 
Farming: Organic (certified) 
 
Aromatics: Floral notes with red berries and black berries. Generous earthiness and subtle smokiness from the oak.
 
Palate: A rich and full-bodied red wine. Beautiful volume with ripe tannins, black fruits, earthiness and spice with a charming texture. Savoury powerful finish.
 
About this wine: The power of this Madiran has been masterfully handled by Christine Dupuy. The vines benefit from the silty clay and limestone soils, along with south - southeast facing, gentle hillsides around the Domaine. Grapes are hand-harvested at perfect ripeness, before being sorted and de-stemmed. Fermentation is conducted in a temperature controlled vats with gentle pumping over for the reds. Malolactic and ageing occurs in old barrel, with a focus on minimal sulphites and lightly filtered (unfined) bottling.
 
When to drink: Now or in the next 8-10 years after vintage.
 
Service: 15 to 16 degrees C.
 
Food match: Meatballs, confit duck with potatoes, cassoulet, slow cooked game, chili con carne, grilled red meat.
 
The Wine Front, Gary Walsh: vintage 2016, 94/100