VINUM EXTRA SPECIAL PUBLICATION

MARCH 2015WWW.VINUM.INFO

EXTRA

Diversity in a traveller’s paradise: between mountain and seaPut to the test: 300 top wines

30 terroirs and crus: a practical guide

LANGUEDOC

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Languedoc terroirs and crusThe Languedoc region is truly a gift from the gods thanks to its ideal location in the south of France be-tween mountain and sea, sun and wind. Its huge range of orientations and soil structures allows a wide variety of styles.

Grands Vins AOC du Languedoc

1 Cabardès2 Corbières3 Saint-Chinian4 Malepère5 Minervois6 Limoux7 Fitou8 Clairette du Languedoc9 Picpoul de Pinet10 Languedoc Sommières11 Languedoc Cabrières12 Languedoc La Méjanelle13 Languedoc Quatourze14 Languedoc Saint-Christol15 Languedoc Saint-Saturnin

Natural wines, Muscat16 Muscat de Frontignan17 Muscat de Mireval18 Muscat de Lunel19 Saint-Jean de Minervois

Sparkling wines20 Limoux – Blanquette de Limoux21 Crémant de Limoux22 Limoux Méthode Ancestrale

Crus AOC du Languedoc

23 Corbières Boutenac24 Minervois La Livinière25 Saint-Chinian Berlou26 Saint-Chinian Roquebrun27 Faugères28 Terrasses du Larzac

Future crus29 Languedoc La Clape30 Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup31 Languedoc Pézenas32 Languedoc Grés de Montpellier33 Languedoc Terrasses de Béziers34 Languedoc Montpeyroux35 Languedoc Saint-Drézéry36 Languedoc St-Georges d’Orques37 Languedoc Limoux Blanc

The grand tasting

250 top Languedocs

Despite extremely stringent selection criteria, we have been able to select 250 wines earning the title of «good» and many falling into the categories of very good to excellent – a fact which speaks for itself. Quality is no longer an empty phrase in Languedoc, but rather a living, daily reality.

31LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015 VINUM

B arbara Schroeder and Rolf Bich-sel spent just under a week in the tasting room of the region-

al wine umbrella organisation CIVL (Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins du Languedoc) in Narbonne, tasting around 300 wines in total. (Almost) every Languedoc area, terroir and style was represented. The tasting was open to all wineries, of course preferably those with a market presence. Unfor-tunately, there were a few stars missing who evidently did not want to compete against others. They only have them-selves to blame: we discovered numer-ous lesser-known wineries bottling equally good wines!

300 wines is a respectable number – but merely a drop in the Languedoc ocean. We saw this as a sign that the market can still expand further, circu-lating wines which have everything going for them: fair price, quality, iden-tity, fun factor. We would have loved to have tasted more samples from areas such as Limoux (which offers not only magnificent sparkling wines but also an increasing number of excellent still wines), sweet Muscat, which has fallen out of fashion, and wines from under-rated terroirs such as Quatourze, Fitou or Cabrières. Our selection is therefore designed to offer not just specific op-portunities for purchase, but also to get the ball rolling and call the attention of wine enthusiasts to this fantastic region of limitless potential.

We have sorted all the wines by ter-roir and score and presented the ter-roirs in alphabetical order, meaning that they will be in the same order as subsequently listed in the individual appellations. This makes it easy to find information about the history, varie-ties or vineyard area of an appellation or terroir. There is one exception in the form of the Terrasses du Larzac: the wines we tasted still bear the inscrip-tion «Languedoc-Terrasses du Larzac», which we have used in our list. The «Languedoc» prefix has been removed by the new 2014 regulations. To reiter-ate: Languedoc is truly in a state of total flux. And this is right and proper, even if it does not make things easier for wine enthusiasts. Never forget that Langue-doc is the largest, most extensive qual-ity wine region in the world!

297WINES TASTED

258WINES SELECTED

3WINES WITH

18 POINTS

19WINES WITH

17 POINTS OR OVER

47WINES WITH

16 POINTS OR OVER

32 VINUM LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015 GUIDE RED WINE

CABARDÈS

Château SalitisCuvée Prémium 201015.5 points | 2015 to 2018Slender, lively tannins, fully mature, easy to drink, characterful.

Vignobles Alain MaurelDomaine Maurel Réserve 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Original, herbaceous spice with refreshing notes of already ripe Cabernet, light, juicy, fun, for any occasion.

Château de Pennautier / Comte Nicolas de LorgerilEsprit de Pennautier 201115.5 points | 2015 to 2016Tempting bouquet of ripe red berries and spices, cinnamon; then refreshing on the palate with se-ductive spice; fully mature, very enjoyable now.

Vignobles Alain MaurelLes Hauts de Ventenac Cuvée Jules 201215 points | 2015Light, simple, smooth, easy to drink, with lovely red chilli notes.

CORBIÈRES

Château Pech-LattTamanova 201117 points | 2015 to 2018Headiness and fullness but also structure and great aromatic complexity are the hallmarks of this wine, offering character and independence. Expensive for a Corbières, but a bargain for such an exceptional wine of almost biblical dimen-sions.

Château La BaronneAlaric 201117 points | 2015 to 2018Sophisticated: immense fruit content, great juicy fullness, delicious texture without intrusive alco-hol, a fruity finish, ripe yet still fresh. Superb.

Château Etang des ColombesBicentenaire 201116.5 points | 2015 to 2016We like this wine‘s decidedly ripe, juicy and fresh style, supporting structure, sophistication, character and maturity. Enjoy now.

Les Vignobles FoncalieuLa Lumière 201116.5 points | 2016 to 2019Displaying aromatic complexity and particular minerality, dense and firm, with oak and alcohol remaining well balanced, has potential.

Château Etang des ColombesBois des Dames 201116 points | 2015 to 2017Astonishingly elegant, floral and fruity, well balanced, easy to drink, light. Wines such as this show their best side drunk at the table, not dur-ing tastings.

190 southern red treatsRed wines make up the majority of Languedoc’s forces: two thirds of the wines we selected are of this colour. It is impossible to reduce them all to a common denominator, in itself their most important characteristic.

33LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015 VINUMGUIDE RED WINE

Domaines BonfilsChâteau Vaugelas Excellence 201116 points | 2016 to 2019Spicy, oak-dominated bouquet; full-bodied, earthy, tart, with a rather dry finish dominated by barrel aging; a well-made, full-bodied, appealing wine.

Domaine de La CendrillonClassique 201116 points | 2015 to 2017Decidedly fruity spice in the bouquet and on the palate, good balance between headiness and freshness, juicy style, good length; outstanding with strongly-flavoured dishes.

Château du Grand Caumont – FLB RigalCuvée Impatience 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Fruity and toasty, crisp and juicy, smooth, but with backbone, full-bodied, generous yet well balanced; a Corbières which is as authentic as it is well made.

Domaine du Grand CrèsCuvée Majeure 201116 points | 2016 to 2019Dense, intense and long with tart, still slightly bitter, harsh tannins not drowning in (too) much alcohol as is the case in other wines, could still age.

Château GléonHautes-Serres 201116 points | 2016 to 2020Juicy, dense, full-bodied, well structured, spirited and fresh, can still be left to age. Characterful.

Château du Grand Caumont – FLB RigalRéserve de Laurence 201116 points | 2015 to 2017We again appreciate the balance, density, light-ness, and successful balancing act between international palatability and authenticity.

Château Pech-LattSélection Vieilles Vignes 201316 points | 2016 to 2018We like the fruity style and the lightness of this bottle, with its direct, straightforward and un-fussy nature, wine made to be enjoyed.

Maison SichelChâteau Trillol – Grenache Syrah 201116 points | 2015 to 2016An appealing, well made, sunny Corbières from the Cucugnan terroir, fruity, smooth, juicy, light: a wine style for any occasion, worth always hav-ing a couple of bottles within reach.

Les Vignobles FoncalieuChâteau Haut-Gléon 200815 points | 2015Exceptionally spicy and fully ripe, wonderfully well-balanced structure, smooth, immaculate, reliable.

Les Domaines AuriolChâtelaine de Saint-Auriol 201015 points | 2015 to 2016Easy to drink, perfectly vinified Corbières at a bargain price, which has earned it its high score. Enjoy now.

Château de SérameCorbières 200915 points | 2015Rather clumsy spice, otherwise perfectly bal-anced, ripe, smooth and easy to drink.

Château Pech-LattCorbières 201315 points | 2015 to 2016Juicy, fruity, refreshing, fun.

Domaine de La CendrillonInédite 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Shines thanks to its fruity style, precision, sophis-tication, spirit and clean, precise construction. Pleasant.

Château La BaronneLes Chemins 201216 points | 2015 to 2018What we like about this wine is its freshness, juiciness and fruity, direct style. Still needs a few months to mature and should be perfect by mid-2015.

Domaine RegazelRéflexion 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Fruity fresh cherry bouquet; delicious and juicy on the palate, lively, heady, but exceptionally cultivated and well made. Don‘t serve too warm.

Château GléonAd Clivum 201016 points | 2015 to 2018Astoundingly youthful for a Corbières of this age, light, still rather tart, not yet fully at its peak, but very reliable and for any occasion.

Domaine du Grand CrèsCuvée Classique 201116 points | 2015 to 2016We like the intensely fruity aromas and the qual-ity of the fresh tannins. No long-distance runner, but a very enjoyable accompaniment to summer cuisine over the next couple of years.

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Château AurisCorbières 201215 points | 2015 to 2016Very spicy, verging on clumsiness, full and ripe; reliable, to accompany flavourful dishes.

Château Pique PerlouDomaine Fairjal 201215 points | 2015Spicy and juicy, light, ripe, medium structure.

Les Domaines AuriolIntense par Claude Vialade 201315 points | 2015 to 2016Fruity and spicy, easy to drink yet well struc-tured; uncomplicated, fun: a bargain for any occasion.

CantalricLes Délices de Capendu 201215 points | 2015Juicy, fruity, perfectly made, delicious and fresh – truly deserves its «delicacies» moniker. Easy to drink and good value for anyone or any occasion.

Domaine de La CendrillonN°1 201115 points | 2015Mellow and fruity, corpulent, heady, appealing, ripe.

Domaine de Borde-RougeRubellis 201315 points | 2015 to 2016Fresh and fruity, uncomplicated, best enjoyed young with grilled kebabs.

Les Vins de l’Abbaye FontfroideDeo Gratias 201115 points | 2015 to 2017Berry jam notes, bulky and opulent structure; the only thing lacking is a little freshness and harmony.

Château AurisDomaine Julien d’Auris 201214.5 points | 2015Rather clumsy spicy bouquet; compact on the palate, very well balanced, reliable.

Château Beauregard MirouzeFiaire 201014.5 points | 2015 to 2016Distinct new oak spice; full structure with crisp tannins, but rather dry and heady in the finish. Lacking a little balance.

Les Domaines AuriolMontmija Signature 201214.5 points | 2015Fresh herb notes with a pleasantly tart, refresh-ing structure; well made, reliable organic wine best drunk up now.

FAUGÈRES

Château des EstanillesRaison d’Être 201118 points | 2015 to 2020No, this bottle’s philosophical name (meaning «purpose in life») is not a superficial marketing gag but rather a profound, apt declaration of its content. The bottle houses a pure, lean nectar, an impressive character wine offering great density, freshness, intensity, excitement, sophisticated spice and huge length. One of the greatest southern wines.

Domaine Binet JacquetRéserve 201118 points | 2015 to 2020Intense, magnificently fruity red berry bouquet; superb structure, dense and full yet sophisti-cated, fruity and mineral, with incredible length; outstandingly made wine.

Château des EstanillesClos du Fou 201217 points | 2015 to 2018Original, particularly mineral spice, perfectly bal-anced structure, only slightly fuzzy tannins, due most likely more to the vintage than the wine or location. Nevertheless excellent and authentic.

Domaines Pierre GaillardTranshumance 201117 points | 2016 to 2020Clearly distinguishable from all other Faugères wines, more mineral and less expressive and so impressively complex, made to last and mature slowly, to develop a smooth texture and the aromas of age.

Domaine Binet JacquetGrande Réserve 201116.5 points | 2015 to 2016More intense, more dense but also a little more clumsy than the Réserve (which we preferred), very heady, very jammy and very long, impres-sive, but also rather tiring for the palate. How-ever, this does not dampen the exceptional work.

Château des PeyregrandesCharlotte 201116 points | 2015 to 2019Aromas of oak, spices and smoke; powerful on the palate, full-bodied, long, with a tart but not dry finish; an interesting, well made, promising wine.

LorgerilChâteau de Ciffre Grand Vin 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Rather clumsy, intrusive roasted aromas of new oak; rich in extract, heady and spicy on the pal-ate, with the barrel aging less dominant than in the bouquet, but this wine absolutely must be decanted.

Les Domaines Montariol DegrooteChâteau de Laurens Haut 201216 points | 2015 to 2018Juicy and well made, meaty and long with a pleasant bitterness in the finish; an easy-drinking, refreshing Faugères for an evening barbecue.

Les Domaines Montariol DegrooteChâteau Fardel Laurens Cuvée Ardoise 201116 points | 2015 to 2019Again a thoroughly delicious wine, opulent and fruity, full-bodied and juicy/luscious, with a long finish of cassis and blueberry notes. Enjoy with juicy steak.

GUIDE RED WINE

35LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015 VINUM

Château de La LiquièreCistus 201216 points | 2015 to 2020Interesting, complex bouquet with fruity, spicy and also mineral components; again fruity on the palate, full-bodied, spicy, generous and lively; characterful.

Domaine de l’Ancienne MercerieCouture 201216 points | 2015 to 2022Complex aromas of cherry, herbs and oak, all perfectly wedded together, with additional min-eral notes; rich in extract and concentrated on the palate, dense and long; a pleasant, intense, characterful, lively Faugères which would pair well with flavourful dishes.

Château des EstanillesInverso 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Original spice, excellent freshness and juiciness without being clumsy; perfect now, with classic southern cuisine.

Château des EstanillesL’Impertinent 201216 points | 2015Fruity, juicy wine, exceptionally made, transpar-ent, guaranteed to please. Wines like this are rarer than you might think!

Mas des CapitellesLoris 200916 points | 2015 to 2016Interesting, complex, initially with smoky animal notes then a mineral and spicy bouquet im-proved by a little aeration; intense on the palate, juicy, long, characterful, better enjoyed now but could be left to age for a while.

Abbaye Sylva PlanaLe Songe de l’Abbé 201115 points | 2015Very ripe, even a little oxidative, immensely corpulent, almost viscous, biblical, very heady, with hints of a Maury or a Banyuls thanks to the present complex of sweetness. Enjoy now as a heart-warming treat on cold winter days.

Mas des CapitellesVieilles Vignes 201215 points | 2015 to 2018Lovely raspberry nose; compact and tart on the palate, with rather coarse-grained tannins.

FITOU

Château WialaHarmonie 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2018Fruity, juicy, tart, with lively tannins; intense, sincere, authentic.

Château WialaRebelle 201215 points | 2015 to 2017Spicy, medium density and length; a tart, reliable everyday wine.

LANGUEDOC

Domaine de SaumarezAalenien 201117 points | 2015 to 2017Tempting bouquet of spice and black berries; concentrated on the palate, dense, very sophis-ticated with a lingering fruity finish, a perfect balance between oak and expression of fruit.

Clos des NinesL’Orée 201117 points | 2015 to 2019Superb bouquet of cherry and herbs; spicy, tart, with sturdy tannins and a headily fresh, lingering finish; with personality and character.

Mas GabinèleInaccessible 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Impressive fullness, length, density and smoul-dering headiness, with a nice barrel age. For afrosty starlit night in an igloo at the North Pole.

Mas GabinèleRarissime 201216 points | 2015 to 2016Outstandingly made, created with flair, the oak notes meaning that it should be left to age for a while to achieve greater typicity. The score is in recognition of the outstanding work.

Mas GabinèleFaugères 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Very well balanced, fruity, smoothly structured, not unmineral, very cleanly made.

Domaine de L’Ancienne MercerieCouture 201115 points | 2015 to 2016Notes of rosemary and other spices, mineral hints; rich and tart with perceptible alcohol. Enjoy with game.

JeanjeanDomaine de Fenouillet – Combe Rouge 201215 points | 2015 to 2019Fresh, fruity, with tart, robust tannins, reliable, for any occasion.

Les Domaines AuriolDomaine Gabaron 201315 points | 2015A slender, light, fruity and spicy organic wine for small budgets, to be enjoyed young.

GUIDE RED WINE

36 VINUM LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015

Grès Saint-PaulAntonin 201216 points | 2015 to 2018Intense, characterful, sophisticated and fresh, harmoniously balanced. Could be left to age a little – would go well with flavourful dishes.

Domaines Paul MasClos des Mûres 201216 points | 2015 to 2017Pleasantly spicy with a tart, smooth structure, light and very reliable. Perfect with Mediterra-nean cuisine.

Domaine CosteplaneLes Cistes 201216 points | 2015 to 2017A still much concealed bouquet that needs to breathe, but a magnificently juicy and fresh texture, still veiled spice, a long finish; must be served in a decanter and large glasses. Suitable for aging.

Domaine CosteplanePioch de l’Oule 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Spicy, slowly developing bouquet, superb con-struction, great density, excellent tannins, full-ness, freshness and length in excellent balance with the bargain price.

Prieuré Saint-Jean de Bébian200816 points | 2015Fully mature, impressively heady but well bal-anced thanks to the powerful texture, character-ful. Must be enjoyed now.

Mas Belles EauxSainte-Hélène 200916 points | 2015Immensely full-bodied yet smooth, very fruity, with polished tannins which have broken down perfectly: exceptionally made, at most a little tentative, due primarily to its advanced stage of development. Best enjoyed now.

Domaine CosteplaneArboussède 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Transparent, ripening, with an interesting herb and spice bouquet and floral violet aromas; juicy on the palate, thoroughly delicious, fun and best enjoyed now.

JeanjeanDevois des Agneaux d’Aumelas 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Robust and dense, the oak adds polish, with chocolate notes in the finish.

Clos des NinesL’Orée 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2017Spicy, very well balanced, well made, polished, fun.

Domaine La GrangeLa Grange Castalides Édition 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Juicy and meaty, heady and weighty, with ripe yet crisp tannins: a good dash of the south at a bargain price.

Domaine La GrangeLa Grange Tradition Prat Bibal 201315.5 points | 2015Fruity, juicy, meaty, with lovely cinnamon notes in the finish. Great fun for a bargain price.

Maison S.DelafontLanguedoc 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Very well groomed with its powdery tannins and tart spice, and perceptible yet not dominant alcohol.

Clos SorianLe Clos 200915.5 points | 2015Immensely spicy bouquet; slender on the palate, healthily rustic, with a fruity finish.

Domaines Paul MasRéserve by Arrogant Frog 201315.5 points | 2015 to 2017Interesting, youthful and mineral spice with a powerful and tart structure. Will come into its own served at the table.

Domaine Les Grandes CostesSarabande 201015.5 points | 2015Fully mature, fruity, smooth, not without fresh-ness, best enjoyed now with a dish such as a ratatouille.

Domaines BonfilsChâteau d’Aubaret 201115 points | 2015 to 2017Intense, fruity, juicy, tart, in an upright, sharp, square-shouldered style. Delicious with flavour-ful dishes.

GUIDE RED WINE

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Château Saint-Jean d’Aumières – Les Vignobles Joseph CastanLes Perles Noires 201315 points | 2015 to 2016Fruity, juicy, reasonably priced, light: a hit with pizza and pasta.

Domaines Paul MasCôté Mas Pézenas – Terroir Fusionnel 201315 points | 2015 to 2018Offering wild, herbaceous spice, with tart, angular tannins and a heady finish: rustic in the best sense of the word. Should not be left to age for too long.

Château de l’EngarranCuvée Sainte-Cécile 201215 points | 2015Juicy, light, well built, easy to drink, perfect for everyday consumption. Best enjoyed now.

Domaine de MassereauLa Tourie 201115 points | 2015Juicy, light, beautifully fresh, well balanced, but should be enjoyed now.

Château de Lascaux / JB CavalierLascaux 201315 points | 2015 to 2017A rather herbaceous yet pleasantly juicy, very reliable organic wine for any occasion.

Mas Belles EauxLes Coteaux 200915 points | 2015Very ripe, spicy, smooth, harmonious, light; should not be left to age for much longer.

Gens et PierresLes Ruches 201315 points | 2015 to 2017Rather brittle and slightly herbaceous in style, but still light and refreshing.

JeanjeanMas de Lunès 201215 points | 2015 to 2017Well structured, spicy, heady, robust.

Château La Clotte-FontaneMouton La Clotte 201215 points | 2015 to 2016Spicy and ripe, pleasantly tart, medium-bodied.

Domaine Les Grandes CostesMusardises 201315 points | 2015 to 2016Light, refreshing, juicy, best enjoyed young and slightly chilled.

Château Haut-BlanvilleClos des Légendes 200915 points | 2015 to 2017Full-bodied, dense, rich, with a long finish, inter-esting despite the dominant oak. Serve from a (slightly chilled) decanter.

Les Vins SkalliDomaine du Silène Grande Cuvée 200914.5 points | 2015Spicy, mature, rather rustic but very appealing, best enjoyed now.

LANGUEDOC-LA CLAPE

Gérard BertrandHospitalitas 201218 points | 2015 to 2020Here in the south, expensive top cuvées only very rarely offer true typicity, instead turning out rather demonstrative, as if winemakers were having to prove that they could also get in on the act in this particular sector. We expected the same from this wine and were pleasantly surprised: as well as the inimitable spice, angular texture, lean nobility and tannin framework of a real La Clape, this wine also offers the expression of perfectly and carefully vinified grapes. Stun-ningly good.

Château Rouquette sur MerCuvée Henry Lapierre 201216.5 points | 2015 to 2018Great spice and aromatic complexity, herbs and smoky iodine components; juicy and full-bodied on the palate, dense and solid and long, excellent with game and game birds as well as dense, lean fish (sea bass, monkfish).

Château Rouquette sur MerL’Absolu 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Immensely mellow and biblically rich wine, impressive workmanship, but extract and de-monstrative fullness at the expense of terroir and lightness. The score is for the workmanship.

Château Haut-BlanvillePeyrals 201115 points | 2015 to 2017Initially rather reductive then offering up interesting spice with bay leaf and clove notes; tart, concentrated and heady on the palate with a long fruity finish. Best with spicy dishes or couscous.

Grès Saint-PaulRomanis 201215 points | 2016 to 2017Sophisticated and fresh with brittle elegance, should be left to age for another year or two.

Château de l’EngarranChevalier de l’Engarran 201215 points | 2015Smooth, simple, easy to drink, a fun wine for everyday consumption.

LANGUEDOC-GRÉS DE MONTPELLIER

Clos SorianLe Grès 200916.5 points | 2015 to 2019Offering the tempting balance of full maturity, compact and aromatic with tart, intense tannins. A harmonious wine in a style we love.

Château de l’EngarranCuvée Grenat Majeur 201116 points | 2015 to 2017Classic and spicy in style, dense, intense, im-mensely rich, but well structured and pleasantly long. Classy.

Château de l’EngarranLes Gravières 201015.5 points | 2015Juicy, immensely fruity, characterful and tart, fun, best enjoyed with flavourful dishes.

GUIDE RED WINE

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Château d’AnglèsGrand Vin 200916 points | 2015Tempting and spicy, fully mature yet still sprightly thanks to the supporting structure, no dominating alcohol, ending with discreet oak notes. Enjoy now.

Château de MarmorièresMarquis de Raymond 201216 points | 2015 to 2020Very rich, with notes of spice and fresh herbs; rich tannins, cultivated and perfectly mastered oak structure and good aging potential.

Domaines BonfilsChâteau Capitoul Oros 201216 points | 2015 to 2018With just the right amount of spice, freshness and minerality which we love in an authentic La Clape, offering bite, density and length. Red wines like this taste fantastic with firm fish such as sea bass, barbecued on fennel branches and served with bacon.

Mas du SoleillaLes Chailles 201116 points | 2015 to 2016In our view one of the fruitiest, most enjoyable Soleilla cuvées we have ever tasted, immensely full-bodied and dense, heady but pleasantly juicy.

Mas du SoleillaClôt de l’Amandier 200916 points | 2015 to 2016Opulent fruit bouquet with hints of fresh herbs; again spicy on the palate, highly concentrated, with robust, tart tannins that make the alcohol (16% ABV) tolerable. Made with great precision, for fans of heady wines.

Mas du SoleillaLes Bartelles 200916 points | 2016 to 2017Smoky oak bouquet, with a tart, angular, bulky structure and a long, intense finish: perceptibly well made but also immensely rich in extract, could be left to age further.

Château Abbaye des MongesLe Chant des Pierres 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2018Black berry and spice aromas; compact, dense, tart and fresh, characterful. Enjoy with flavourful dishes.

Château Rouquette sur MerCuvée L’Esprit Terroir 201215 points | 2015This joyful, juicy and yet genuine La Clape is already very enjoyable and is best drunk young. Good value for money.

Château Pech RedonL’Epervier 201215 points | 2016 to 2018Spicy and tart, robust and angular, could still be left to age.

Château d’AnglèsClassique 201115 points | 2015Spicy, dense, very ripe, but with angular, robust tannins. Drink now.

LANGUEDOC-LA MÉJANELLE

Domaine ClavelCopa Santa 201217 points | 2015 to 2018Anyone interested in wines that have personality and character should seek out this magnificently authentic wine. Angular and uncompromising, immensely clean and straightforward with juice and extract from the grapes, tannin from the ripe grape skins, a stunning floral bouquet following aeration – excellent and the best illustration of this terroir’s class.

LANGUEDOC-MONTPEYROUX

Domaine d’AupilhacLes Cocalières 201217.5 points | 2017 to 2025When we first met him many, many years ago, Sylvain Fadat was a shy young guy obsessed with one single task: emulating role models such as Olivier Jullien or Aimé Guibert and pressing great wines in an underappreciated terroir. This organic winemaker has clearly succeeded! Com-plex, elegant and refined with great power and density, top-quality tannins, excellent balance between freshness, fruitiness and complexity... A wonderful wine which we still prefer to the Boda cuvée thanks to its easy-drinking style, beautiful expression of fruit, elegance and minerality. Superb.

Domaine d’AupilhacLa Boda 201117 points | 2018 to 2022A wine in a state of upheaval, shaped by oak in this phase. The fruitiness of youth is on the retreat but the aromatic length is impressive, the whole demonstrating power, headiness and fullness but also style. One of the greatest Languedoc wines.

Domaine d’AupilhacMontpeyroux 201216 points | 2015 to 2018Incipient, still reticent spice with ripe berry notes, well built, light and perfectly structured despite the alcohol, juicy, fun.

GUIDE RED WINE

39LANGUEDOC EXTRA 2015 VINUM

LANGUEDOC-PÉZENAS

Prieuré Saint-Jean de Bébian201116 points | 2016 to 2018Full-bodied, even weighty, rich in extract, with polished tannins, could still be left to age some-what: pleasant, of international quality.

AllegriaTribu d’A 201016 points | 2015 to 2018Weighty and intense, a touch of healthy rusticity, with rather angular tannins, making it a good accompaniment for flavourful dishes.

Domaine de LarzacLanguedoc Pézenas 201016 points | 2015 to 2016A full-bodied, lively wine offering juiciness and freshness, with an impressive berry finish. Fun now with flavourful dishes.

Villa TemporaLes Démons du Midi 201115.5 points | 2015 to 2016Full-bodied and spicy with notes of red berries, cocoa, chocolate, spice; perfect with game.

Prieuré Saint-Jean de BébianChapelle de Bébian 201015.5 points | 2015Full-bodied, fully mature, spicy, good with pizza and pasta, should be drunk soon.

Villa TemporaVilla Tempora 201115 points | 2015Tart and spicy wine, very enjoyable now: drink soon.

Domaine ClavelBonne Pioche 201216 points | 2015 to 2016We also like the younger, fresh, particularly light version of this organic wine, best enjoyed now.

Les Vignerons du PicTour du Roc 201116 points | 2015 to 2017Blissfully spicy, fruity with tightly knit but also pleasantly smooth tannins, exceptionally made, appealing in the best sense of the word, good value, fun.

Bergerie du CapucinDame Jeanne Rouge 201215 points | 2015A fruity, juicy, fresh wine for any occasion.

LANGUEDOC-SAINT-GEORGES D’ORQUES

Château de l’EngarranCuvée Quetton Saint-Georges 201017.5 points | 2015 to 2020An astounding wine from a great and completely underrated terroir, dense, juicy, immensely clean, perfectly chiselled structure, impressive length, could still be left to age. Must be decanted.

Domaine Belles PierresChant des Âmes 201216 points | 2016 to 2020An interesting bouquet of mint and other spices; rich on the palate, full, with powerful tannins; an interesting, still impetuous, youthful wine which will offer great satisfaction in a year’s time.

LANGUEDOC-PIC SAINT-LOUP

Château de Lascaux / JB CavalierLes Secrets – Madeleine 200918 points | 2015 to 2018This is in a class of its own. The wine pleases with its special spice, floral style and great length, with tannins exhibiting a tartness reminiscent of a Barolo. Impressive.

Domaine ClavelBonne Pioche 201117 points | 2015 to 2020Impressive spice with fruity, floral and mineral touches; exceptionally dense on the palate, juicy, long. Excellent for the price.

Domaine Les Grandes CostesGrandes Costes 201116 points | 2015 to 2018A balsamic bouquet with dark chocolate notes; fruity, juicy and lively on the palate with toasty elements in the finish. Suitable for aging.

Bergerie du CapucinLarmanela 201116 points | 2015 to 2020Opulent, generous, well structured, solidly built and yet perfectly balanced, thoroughly pleasant and completely worth the price.

Château de Lascaux / JB CavalierLes Nobles Pierres 200916 points | 2015A heavy and heady (for our taste rather too heady) wine with alcohol dominating minerality. Best enjoyed now.

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Château de l’EngarranCuvée Le Parc 201015.5 points | 2015 to 2016We like Engarran wines and know the quality of Saint-Georges d’Orques soils. However, we are staying well clear of this competitive cuvée. The alcohol is too dominant, the whole too clumsy and mellow, made for tasters rather than enthusiasts.

LANGUEDOC-SAINT-SATURNIN

Le Mas d’EstelleCòr Rouge 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Ripe and spicy but also pleasantly juicy, spirited and characterful, outstandingly made.

Le Mas d’EstelleL’Afiamen 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Tart construction, with full-bodied and powerful tannins, a long finish; more substantial than the other two cuvées, generous, earthy, could still be left to age.

Domaine MalavieilleLe Mas de Bertrand 201216 points | 2015Immensely spicy, juicy and light, a style of wine with «taste», offering elder and violet notes that linger on the palate. Magnificently uncomplicated and easy to drink.

Le Mas d’EstelleLou Félibrige 201215.5 points | 2015 to 2016Temptingly juicy and smooth with round, ripe, medium-density tannins; caresses the palate.

LIMOUX

Domaine de Borde-RougeGrande Cuvée 201315.5 points | 2015An interesting mixture of Atlantic freshness and southern fullness, well structured, mineral, fruity, heady. A style of wine that you will always want to drink.

MINERVOIS

Château d’AgelMinervois 201118 points | 2015 to 2018«Vinification intégrale» means risk, as every barrel used as a fermentation tank is a single unit and has the potential to act differently. It also making every effort to transfer the grapes to the glass in as unadulterated a form as pos-sible, as was done thousands of years ago, but using modern technology. However, we are more interested in the result than the method, and the taste speaks for itself. Whilst southern fullness again dominates, it is balanced out by the quality of the tannins, the sophistication and the particular spice. A unique, biblical wine that deserves praise for its very existence.

Château d’AgelIn Extremis 201117.5 points | 2015 to 2018Yet another extreme cuvée? Yes and no. Whilst fullness, density, full body and extract are all part of the piece, the immensely precise style with which this wine is interpreted, its fruiti-ness, the sophistication of its tannins and the harmony of its whole are never grandiose, echo-ing Beethoven rather than Wagner in the glass. Serve not too warm (must be under 16 degrees) in a large Burgundy glass and enjoy in small sips.

Domaine Anne Gros & Jean Paul TollotLa Ciaude 201017 points | 2015The North meets the South, and the results are worth seeing. The effect of Burgundy winemak-ing and the precision in the search for fruitiness, ripe tannins and freshness is highlighted rather than discarded by the south, combined with headiness and uncompromising, untamed spice.

Château CabezacRoc de Bô Terroir de Cazelles 201217 points | 2015 to 2018Superb fruit content, sophisticated tannins, substance, density, fullness, smoothness, preci-sion, length, character, spirit, headiness; this exceptional wine has it all.

Clos CenteillesCapitelle de Centeilles 200516.5 points | 2015Don’t you use Cinsault to make rosé? Because it doesn’t mature? Patricia Boyer-Domergue has been gleefully throwing preconceptions overboard and presenting a red varietal Cinsault for almost ten years: a stunning bouquet remi-niscent of a Pinot Noir which has been left to age for a long time, with great, silky fullness and enormous originality. The score is for this original style and the opportunity to step outside of the mainstream.

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Clos CenteillesC de Centeilles 200916 points | 2015The list of varieties reads like a historical novel, and the wine’s age gives expression to their fully fledged spice. Spice, pepper, smoothness, grape artistry, terroir, precision in a wine at a bargain price.

Château CabezacCariñu 201116 points | 2015 to 2016This cuvée shows what unloved Carignan is capable of if handled correctly. It will never pro-duce elegance, but instead creates angular, mel-low wines that are delicious with a dry sausage after a long walk... We like this.

Château d’AgelCaudios 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Density, fullness, structure, headiness... a wine which does not conceal its southern origins, a soul-soother for cold winter evenings.

Domaines BonfilsChâteau Villerambert Julien Opéra 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Well structured and pleasantly light compared to other wines, full-bodied, angular, long, with character and potential.

Château CabezacGrande Cuvée Belvèze 201116 points | 2015A present complex of sweetness, full and ripe, possibly causing it to appear rather clumsy. Nevertheless outstandingly made.

Château d’AgelLes Bonnes Rouge 201116 points | 2015Perfect, top-quality, precise construction, very fine tannins, great balance and lightness at a stunning price... An easy choice.

Domaine La RouvioleCuvée Sélection 201215.5 points | 2015Black berry bouquet, tart and rather coarse-grained tannins, but a crisp finish.

Les Domaines AuriolDomaine La Capelle 201315.5 points | 2015Fruitiness, fullness, spice and freshness, char-acter, structure and headiness at an almost outrageously low price.

Château Saint-Jacques d’AlbasLe Château d’Albas 201115.5 points | 2015 to 2017Pleasantly spicy and juicy, without dominant alcohol, ending with fresh oak notes; light, fruity and well structured.

Château de SérameMinervois 200915.5 points | 2015A spicy, exceptionally made, harmonious, per-haps also rather tentative, perfectly ripe wine, nevertheless offering southern typicity.

Château d’AgelGrenu 201216 points | 2015 to 2018Differs from other cuvées thanks to its marked fruity content and its juicy, mellow style which makes the smouldering headiness tolerable. Enjoy with game or game birds – instead of an Amarone!

Château Saint-Jacques d’AlbasLa Chapelle 200916 points | 2015 to 2016Spicy and full-bodied, mature but also juicy and pleasantly tart, with perfectly integrated alcohol. How we like wines from this area to be.

Château Pique PerlouLa Sellerie 201016 points | 2016 to 2020Tempting bouquet, rich in extract but also rich and juicy, uncompromisingly lively, with tart, full tannins; has personality, potential and character.

Les Vignobles FoncalieuLe Lien 201116 points | 2016 to 2018A rarity made from pure Syrah, decidedly fruity, particularly dense and deep, complex, long, with lots of juicy tannin offering the required tartness and freshness. Only the finish, left rather too dry by the use of oak, keeps it from achieving a higher score.

Château CabezacLe Petit Arthur 201116 points | 2015 to 2018Displays complexity, spice, density, structure and substance, all well supported by angular tannins. Fun with flavourful dishes.

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Domaine Cailhol GautranVilla Lucia 201115.5 points | 2015Offers not only southern fruitiness but also fi-nesse, with a slender and spicy finish, pleasantly light. Enjoy now.

Domaine Combe BlancheCalamiac Terroir 201315 points | 2015Juicy, fruity, almost herbaceous in style, robust and easy to drink, available at a bargain price.

Tour Saint-MartinChâteau de Peyriac 201015 points | 2015Soft, smooth, pleasantly spicy, reliable, best enjoyed now: a top wine at a bargain price from this exemplary cooperative.

Domaines BonfilsChâteau Millegrand Aurore 201115 points | 2015Rather reductive with spicy animal notes; tart, medium-bodied and with a rather traditional construction.

CantalricDomaine du Jautarel 201315 points | 2015Juicy, light, easy to drink, enjoyable in this fruity phase, a perfect, inexpensive everyday wine.

Château de ParazaIn Vino Veritas 201015 points | 2015Softly spicy, with ripe tannins, a toasty finish, enjoy soon.

Château Pique PerlouMinervois 201115 points | 2015 to 2016A fruity bouquet, juicy on the palate, with tart, crisp tannins and a long fruity finish; joyful and uncomplicated.

ChantoventChâteau Mirousse – La Paissière – Cuvée Originale 201215 points | 2015 to 2017Fruity, spicy, tart, simple, at most a little rustic.

MINERVOIS-LA LIVINIÈRE

Clos CenteillesMinervois-La Livinière 200817 points | 2015 to 2016This style of wine is best enjoyed from a Bur-gundy glass, as this wine’s real trump card lies in its stunning spicy and floral aromas, supported on the palate by smoothness and astounding elegance given its angular nature. Excellent.

LorgerilDomaine de La Borie Blanche Terroir d’Altitude 201116 points | 2015 to 2016Fruitiness, smoothness, full body and spice create a harmonious tête-à-tête, the whole remaining light and easy to drink. Enjoy now with southern cuisine.

Domaine La RouvioleCru La Livinière 201115.5 points | 2015 to 2016Pleasantly fruity, dense and juicy, with an intense Syrah bouquet, best enjoyed over the next couple of years.

Domaine Combe BlancheLa Chandelière 201115 points | 2015 to 2016A robust, spicy, solidly built wine with well-inte-grated alcohol, very reliable.

Domaine Combe BlancheLa Galine 201015 points | 2015Spicy, fresh, tart; an inexpensive wine best enjoyed with barbecued dishes – you could even afford a couple of bottles.

ChantoventChâteau Félines – Sélection Jean Alibert 201015 points | 2015Pleasantly light, smooth, reliable. Drink up now as it is beginning to dry out.

SAINT-CHINIAN

Domaine La MaduraLa Madura Grand Vin 201117 points | 2015 to 2018Superb colour, a complex bouquet of mineral and spice, dense structure and a long, character-ful finish. An exceptional wine offering class and sophistication.

Les Vignobles FoncalieuApogée 201116 points | 2015 to 2022Dense, intense cherry red; spicy herb bouquet; juicy in the attack, fruity and full, meaty, with well-integrated tannins and an outstandingly long finish; a rich, lively wine with zest. Enjoy with a shoulder of lamb and herbs.

Mas ChampartClos de la Simonette 201116 points | 2015 to 2028Offering typicity, freshness, spice and character, could still age. Excellent Saint-Chinian.

Château du Prieuré des MourguesGrande Réserve 201016 points | 2015 to 2016Fully mature, immensely spicy, full-bodied south-ern wine, with supporting structure and fresh-ness, best enjoyed now with a wintery roast.

Domaine des Pradels-QuartironiChâteau Quartironi de Sars Cuvée – Haut-Coup de Foudres 201115.5 points | 2015 to 2018Notes of seasoning herbs and ripe red berries; again fruity on the palate with tart, well-integrat-ed tannins; an original, enjoyable wine.

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Domaine La MaduraLa Madura Classic 201115.5 points | 2015A good, full-bodied, spicy, fully mature wine best served with flavourful dishes, offering enough freshness and minerality.

Les Domaines AuriolVignes Royales Rieu Berlou 201115.5 points | 2015Juicy, refreshing, immensely fruity, perfectly balanced, the kind of easy drinking wine of which you can never have enough.

Domaine des Pradels-QuartironiChâteau Quartironi de Sars Cuvée Haut-Priou 200915 points | 2015Remaining compact despite its maturity, with tart, angular tannins. Has passed its peak and should not be left to age for much longer.

Château Saint-Martin des ChampsLes Terrasses de Fontenilles 201115 points | 2015 to 2018Spicy, oak-dominated bouquet; full, rich struc-ture, tart tannins, but a dry finish dominated by barrel notes.

Clos BagatelleSentiers de Bagatelle 201215 points | 2015 to 2016A juicy, full-bodied, typical Saint-Chinian with well-integrated tannins, good with any flavourful dishes. Should not be left to age for too long.

Domaine GaltierL’Obstinée 201214.5 points | 2015 to 2020Tart with a lively, light style.

Domaine La Croix ChaptalLe Secret de Gellone 201015 points | 2015Initially closed, almost rather muffled, then de-veloping more interesting notes of herbs, spices and liquorice following aeration; with a mature, tart structure on the palate, best enjoyed now. The score comes with the condition that it is drunk soon.

Domaine de La Devèze-MonnierLes Reynets 201115 points | 2016 to 2018Very substantial with angles and corners; a robust, upright wine suitable for aging.

Domaine MalavieilleAlliance 201215 points | 2015 to 2016Spicy notes of chocolate and ripe, sweet berries; tart on the palate, medium bodied, not to be left to age for much longer.

Château Saint-Jean d’Aumières – Les Vignobles Joseph CastanL’Alchimiste 201215 points | 2015Spicy on the palate, ripe and smooth, best enjoyed now.

Château de JonquièresLa Baronnie 201114.5 points | 2015 to 2017Although rather lacking in balance, the finish is dense but dry.

SAINT-CHINIAN-ROQUEBRUN

Cave de RoquebrunRoches Noires 201215.5 points | 2015A joyful, easy drinking, refreshing wine best enjoyed slightly chilled, perfect with barbecue dishes, kebabs or lamb chops. Good value for money.

Cave de RoquebrunGrange des Combes 201215 points | 2015Rather rustic but typical in style; everyday small pleasures.

TERRASSES DU LARZAC

Gérard BertrandChâteau La Sauvageonne Grand Vin 201216 points | 2015 to 2016Rather intrusive barrel notes which constrain this otherwise very cleanly made, well-proportioned, heady wine. The score is for the high-quality construction.

JeanjeanDomaine du Causse d’Arboras – La Faille 201215.5 points | 2015Immensely fruity, joyful, juicy, appealing, a style of wine which you will always want to drink.

JeanjeanDomaine du Causse d’Arboras – La Senti-nelle 201215.5 points | 2015We like the particularly fruity, juicy, relatively light style of this wine. Appealing without much character, but very cleanly made.

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