Spittoon: We Spit So You Can Swallow
Not something you see much of in the South of France is Cabernet Franc – the grape and country of choice for this months Wine Blogging Wednesday. Rare enough to be interesting despite not being totally Cab. Franc; although the major component there is a hearty douse of Grenache with a smidgen of Syrah and Cinsault too.
Wine Tasting Note: Domaine de l’Engarran, 2005 Vin de Pays d’Oc, France
Off the middle shelf at Oddbins for £7.99.
A weighty palate, tight gravelly tannins and a inky-berry led flavour. A touch of sweet fruit, especially on the finish with an edge of black currants. No hints of the leafiness/herbaceousness often associated with Cabernet Franc, perhaps due to the warmer growing conditions down in the Languedoc, but there is a touch of earthiness, another ‘sign’ of Cabernet Franc. Opens up nicely with an edge of something akin to roses or spiced rose petals. Alcohol 13%. The actual blend is a mix of 46% Cabernet Franc, 40% Grenache, 11% Syrah & 3% Cinsault.
Scribblings Rating – 90/100 [3.75 out of 5]
Gracing the label (you might just make out from my photo) is a line drawing of a lion devouring a bunch of grapes. As with the other wines from this estate this label detail is taken from statues and details from the house -
In the shrubbery of the “Allée des Lions” stands a sleek, proud and greedy lioness. This statue enjoying its grapes represents tamed strength (of stone… or wine?) and once again the alliance of wine and heritage in the spirit of Engarran.”
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Andrew,
Love your photo. What pie are you pairing with this wine?
The label is just lovely. Too bad it is not available in the US.
Pictured is a game pie (stunningly good from Oxford’s covered market) which I had cold with the wine. Better was a lovely steak and kidney pue (from the same market) – a lovely match.