Has spring finally sprung?!...
It feels like it has been a very long, wet winter. Or potentially it has just happened to rain every time I have taken my dog for a walk in recent months!
Either way, it has been a welcome relief to see some sunshine arrive over the last week or two. This period of the year is always busy as we help our restaurant customers prepare for the ‘season’ ahead.
Part of that process is holding a trade tasting for our customers to attend and taste through our newfound discoveries.
And the wines enclosed in this month’s case were a resounding success at that particular event. New to the Scottish market, we are delighted to introduce you to the wines of Domaine du Météore.
It is an estate with a truly fascinating history and I would love to hear your feedback on them. Judging by the comments we received post-trade tasting, they are going to be popping up on the wine lists at lots of your favourite restaurants in the weeks ahead.
As always, thanks for your continued support and I hope you enjoy the process of discovering this gem of an estate that we are delighted to now be working with.
Cheers!
Philippe
Domaine du Météore, South West France – organic
Ten thousand years ago, a meteorite struck a hillside in southern France. Today, the team at Domaine du Météore tend to vines that grow within and around its crater. High up in the Languedoc mountains, the domaine spans the schist soils of Faugères and Saint-Chinian.
Surrounded by garrigue with the scent of wild thyme, fennel and cistus, they make organic wines inspired by their land and its history.
These are most definitely wines from another dimension and we are delighted to welcome them to the l’Art du Vin portfolio.
In many ways, these wines represent the very DNA of what we hope to achieve at l’Art du Vin – sharing wines that are sustainable, unique and representative of the environment they are grown in, while also, of course, being delicious!
‘Le Météore Blanc’ 2022
Tasting Note
A blend of Vermentino, Roussane and Viognier. Expect a floral nose with sweet spice, bergamot and white pepper. A bright and dynamic palate with a saline finish.
Food Pairing
An ideal wine for this time of year – think seasonal veg pairings such as asparagus and peas. Would be perfect with pan-fried artichoke with smoked salmon.
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‘Le Météore Rosé’ 2023
Tasting Note
A bright, fresh and zesty blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah. The nose is dominated by tart red fruit and blood orange, leading to a dynamic, well-structured palate. The finish is long with delightfully refreshing salinity.
Food Pairing
An ideal aperitif or partner for ceviche or paella. A personal favourite sees it paired with a caprese salad.
Food Pairing
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‘Le Météore Rouge’ 2021
Tasting Note
If you tend to enjoy Côtes du Rhône then I think this will be up your street - an expressive, juicy yet structured red packed with notes of raspberry, blackcurrants, violets and thyme. Crisp and fresh on the palate with well-integrated tannins.
Food Pairing
Great with beef dishes, charcuterie or simply enjoy on its own. Could also work very well with the first BBQs of the year (weather permitting!).
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Faugères AOC ‘Les Léonides’ 2020
Tasting Note
A silky, layered blend of Syrah, Grenache and Cinsault. The nose is amazingly vibrant, with notes of blackcurrant backed up by thyme and a hint of balsamic. Fresh and supple in the mouth, this is a wonderful example of the combination of fruitiness and balance that you would expect of the best examples from the Faugères terroir.
Food Pairing
This is a wonderfully versatile gastronomic wine – which can also most definitely be enjoyed without food. In the kitchen, think slow cooked casseroles, mushroom dishes or game.
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