The
wines of Domaine Font Caude, Montpeyroux, Languedoc
Alain Chabanon’s Domaine Font Caude is now one of the
leading lights in the Languedoc. He owns 18 ha of vines in the commune
of Montpeyroux, and has just moved to a new purpose built winery.
Before setting up his own domaine he worked for Alain Brumont in
Madiran. These are impressive wines showing great concentration in a
lush, attractive mould, although I wasn’t that convinced by the
Merlot. Why grow Merlot in the Languedoc? Prices are from La
Vigneronne, who hosted this tasting.
Le Merle aux Alouettes 1999, Vin de Pays d’Oc
A new cuvee made from Merlot, with a long maceration followed by
24 months in barrique. Deep, vivid red colour. Rich, spicy, dusty nose
is distinctively southern. Quite a chunky, spicy palate with rich
fruit and dusty tannins. Very rich and savoury, but a little austere
on the finish. Perhaps this spent too long in barrel? Very good (£16.25)
Les Boissières 1998 Coteaux du Languedoc Montpeyroux
This is 90% Grenache/10% Syrah; it wasn’t made in 1999 because
Alain decided to use the Grenache as a blending component for the Cuvée
Tradition (not tasted here). The lovely rich, sweet herby liquoricey
nose is very striking. Lush, sweet palate is quite herby and fruity,
with some tannic structure. This is an unusual wine; quite a low acid
style. Very good/excellent (£20)
L’Esprit de Font Caude 1999 Coteaux du Languedoc
Montpeyroux
70% Syrah/30% Mourvèdre; long maceration and 24 months in
barrique. Seductive herby, liquoricey nose with some sweet fruit and a
bit of spiciness and earthy complexity. Chunky palate is quite tannic,
in a rich savoury style. Quite a big wine with a touch of alcohol on
the finish. The Mourvèdre component asserts itself with dry, dusty
tannins: this is quite a serious wine that needs some time. Very
good/excellent (£17.50)
L’Esprit de Font Caude 1998 Coteaux du Languedoc
Montpeyroux
90% Syrah, 10% Grenache. Very deep red/purple colour. Sweet, spicy
nose with liquoricey, tarry complexity and a warm southern character.
The palate is chunky and tannic with a dusty finish. Savoury and
concentrated this is quite tight at the moment. Needs time. Very
good/excellent (£20)
Tasting at La Vigneronne, April 2002
Back to top
|