More Languedoc Tastings

My notes on the wines we’ve tasted recently, all bought (except the last one) at the Maison des Vins for Coteaux du Languedoc near Montpellier.

L’Âme de Familongue 2006, AOC Coteaux du Languedoc – Terrasses du Larzac, 13.5% ABV, made by Domaine de Familongue in Saint André de Sangonis

Made from hand-picked, old vine Carignan (34%), Syrah (30%), Grenache (15%), Mourvèdre (13%), and Cinsault (8%); no chemicals or herbicides used
Moderately intense aromas of blackberry and cassis, with notes of dried herbs, liquorice, and cloves. It has suede tannins and medium acidity, giving a smooth overall mouthfeel and a nicely balanced finish. Paired with a gâteau au chèvre.

Château du Prieuré des Mourgues Grande Reserve 2005, AOC Saint-Chinian, made by Vignobles Roger in Pierrerue

A blend of Syrah (70%), Grenache (20%), and Mourvèdre (10%)
Aromas and flavours of liquorice, black cherry, dried herbs, and pepper. Soft tannins and medium acidity, yielding a round mouthfeel. Brilliant with Michèle’s lamb ragout with a peanut butter sauce!

Mas Conscience L’As 2006, AOC Coteaux du Languedoc – Terrasses du Larzac, 14.5% ABV, made by Geneviève and Laurent Vidal in St-Jean-de-Fos

A blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan; Biodynamic methods used
Aromas of red currants, black raspberry, gaminess, and dried herbs with floral and mineral notes. It’s full-bodied with assertive tannins (which mellowed with exposure to air) and medium acidity. The red currants carried through to a good, balanced finish. Served with fresh pasta (cèpes cannelloni and truffle ravioli) and a cream & veal-stock sauce. Delicious!

Muscat de Saint Jean de Minervois Vendanges d’Automne NV, Vin Doux Naturel, AOC Muscat de St Jean de Minervois, 15.5% ABV, produced by Les Vignerons du Val d'Orbieu in Narbonne

Gold in colour, this sweet Muscat has intense aromas of dried apricots, orange peel, and honey with floral notes. It’s full-bodied with medium acidity and a long finish. A great match with foie gras de canard.

Clos Syrah 2002, AOC Coteaux de Languedoc. 14.5% ABV, made by Domaine de Peyre Rose in Saint-Pargoire

Syrah 90%, Mourvèdre 10%
Domaine de Peyre Rose has a stellar reputation and here’s an example of what a great winemaker (Marlène Soria) can do in a so-so year like 2002. Deep purple colour. Intense aromas of plums and black raspberry, black olives, dried herbs, sweet spices, and liquorice. All that comes through in the powerful taste with the fruit coming through as more prune than plum. Velvety tannins and good, medium acidity to balance the fruit. A longer finish than I expected. Stunning! Perfectly paired with a slow-roasted leg of lamb.  Bought at La Cave des Arceaux.