On the nose black cherries, liquorice and black pepper, which gives a slightly prickly sensation. In the moth well balanced and consistent with the nose. Fairly long finish, but lighter than expected, with an earthy character.
This wine is produced under the Minervois La Livinière red wine appellation by the Domaine L’Ostal Cazes.
La Livinière is a commune in the north of the area covered by the Minervois appellation, with a reputation for producing some of the finest red wines of the region, in itself one of the best of the Languedoc wine region in southern France.
The Domaine was purchased in 2002 by Jean-Michel Cazes, the owner of Château Lynch-Bages in Pauillac.
I bought this Gran Vin made with 70% Syrah, 15% Carignan, 10% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre for 21.50 EUR a couple of years ago at Toulouse Airport, on the way home after a two weeks visit of the Laguedoc-Roussillon region with my son.
Back then I also bought a couple of bottles of Estibal 2013, another wine produced by Domaine L’Ostal Cazes under the Minervois AOC. It is a blend of 60% Syrah, 20% Carignan and 20% Grenache. It sells for 11.50 EUR.
The Gran Vin is richer than the cheaper version Estibal I tasted the night before. Although simpler, Estival was not any less pleasant, with a fruity profile that improved with every sip.
Overall, I personally enjoyed more Estibal. Mainly because it had what I judge to be a more honest, less pushed/overripe, profile. Actually, I suspect that the Gran Vin is made to please the American/Parkerised palate.
I find the comparison between Estibal and the Gran Vin interesting in being an example that sometime the richer and most expensive wine is not necessarily the one that gives me the most fulfilling experience. Said this, I would like to underline that I find both excellent wines that offer great value for the price.
Country: France
Region: Languedoc
Grapes: Syrah, Carignan, Grenache, Mourvèdre
Type: Red
Vintage: 2012
Producer: Domaine L’Ostal Cazes
Price range: Medium (15-30 US$)
Pascal’s Enjoyment Index: 4/5