91
points
Gérard Bertrand 2006 Cigalus Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$59
This is a big, intense offering from Bertrand, showing what fantastic wines can be achieved using international varieties and the Vin de Pays appellation. Black berries, clove, saddle leather and cigar tobacco abound on the nose, while the velvety-textured mouth shows fruit flavors of cassis and black plum with notes of pepper and licorice. A solid structure, good…
— L.B.
(11/1/2009)
91
points
Laroche 2001 La Croix Chevalière Red (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$30
With some maturity, this wine shows delicious food-friendly levels of black fruits, acidity and a fine balancing tannic structure. From Michel Laroche’s Languedoc winery near Beziers, this is a blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon. Brambles, black currants and licorice all come together in this dense wine.
— R.V.
(2/1/2007)
91
points
Domaine de Nizas 2004 Réserve Red (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$35
An intense wine, superconcentrated, with very rich fruit, layers of dark tannins and wood, and fruit flavors that concentrate on dark plums, black figs and ripe blackberries. The dryness and the finishing acidity show how this wine needs to age.
— R.V.
(12/15/2007)
91
points
Laroche 2003 La Croix Chevalière Red (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$30
An impressive wine, a blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cabernet Sauvignon, this is only produced in the best vintages at Michel Laroche’s Mas la Chevalière. The summer of 2003 in the Languedoc was not as hot as the rest of France, so, while the wine is full-bodied, it is not overpowering despite its richness and dense black fruits. Age this wine for another two years.
— R.V.
(12/31/2006)
91
points
Gérard Bertrand 2009 Cigalus Red (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$50
A 50-50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine proves that not all Pays d’Oc are created equal. So deep and complex, you can discover a new aroma or flavor with each smell or sip. The fruit-forward core of dark black fruit is graced with accents of rosemary, violets and thyme, while the finish offers a rich, toasted oak character and spice that lingers…
— L.B.
(2/1/2012)
90
points
Montpezat 2005 Prestige Syrah-Cabernet (Vin de Pays d'Oc)
-
$18
Full-bodied and intense, this is a lovely wine for those who like them big and are looking for something out of the norm. Cedar spice, kirsch, black currant and bay leaves are all prominent upon nosing. The mouth, full of black plum, berries, meat and espresso granules, coats the palate and finishes long and strong. An excellent and cost-friendly companion for a…
— L.B.
(11/1/2009)