Château Maris, Les Planels, Minervois, La Livinière, Languedoc-Roussillon, France 2020

90
Tasted by: Amy Wislocki
(at Waitrose Cookery School, London, 23 May 2023)
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2029
Not only are the wines produced at Château Maris certified biodynamic, the estate has also been B Corp certified since 2016, so this is a great choice for the conscious consumer. The bonus is that the wines offer great value for money. This one, a blend of mainly Syrah with 15% Grenache, aged in French oak for 12 months, is a big beast – generous, intense and structured – but balanced. It's very Rhône-like on the nose, with an iron darkness, some bacony notes and firm black fruits; there's also an air of garrigue to it, and a warm finish. Definitely a food wine, and one with another five years ahead of it, at least.
89
Tasted by: Natalie Earl
(at Conseil Interprofessionnel de Vins, Narbonne, 30 Apr 2023)
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2029
A rather thick and rich expression here, showing cooked cherries, dark chocolate, mocha and figs. Lacks a little freshness but shows good intensity and concentration.
Château Maris, Les Planels, Minervois, La Livinière, Languedoc-Roussillon, France 2020
Producer
Château Maris
Brand
Les Planels
Vintage
2020
Wine Type
Still
Colour
Red
Country
France
Appellation
Minervois
Sweetness
Dry
Closure
Natural Cork
Alcohol
15.00%
Body
Full
Grapes
85% Syrah / Shiraz
15% Grenache