Winery: Domaine Paul Meunier
Grape Varieties: Grenache, Carignan, Lledoner Pelut, Syrah
Region: Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Côtes du Roussillon, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Appellation: Languedoc-Roussillon Villages
Color: Red
Format: 0.75 L Bottle
Description
The 2016 Côtes du Roussillon Villages from Domaine Paul Meunier is a powerful and elegant wine, benefiting from the schist soils and sunny climate of Roussillon to fully express the richness of its terroir. This typical southern French blend, featuring Grenache, Carignan, Lledoner Pelut, and Syrah, perfectly balances concentration and freshness.
Blend
Grenache: Provides fruity aromas (red and black fruits) and a lovely roundness.
Carignan: Adds tannic structure and vibrancy, balancing the wine.
Lledoner Pelut: A rare Mediterranean grape that brings finesse and smoothness.
Syrah: Imparts spicy notes and depth.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep red with purple reflections, indicating good concentration.
Nose: The nose is expressive, with aromas of black fruits (blackberry, cassis), garrigue herbs (wild thyme, rosemary), and spicy notes (pepper, licorice), along with a hint of dark chocolate. As it aerates, smoky and mineral notes emerge.
Palate: The palate is broad and generous, with well-structured, integrated tannins. Flavors of black fruits blend with spices and underbrush, leading to a long and harmonious finish. Freshness supports the wine’s power, creating a perfect balance.
Aging Potential
This 2016 vintage can be enjoyed now but also has an aging potential of 7 to 10 years. It will continue to evolve in the bottle, gaining complexity with tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and undergrowth.
Food Pairings
This structured and generous wine pairs well with robust and flavorful dishes:
Grilled or roasted red meats (lamb, beef)
Slow-cooked dishes in sauce (daube provençale, cassoulet)
Game (wild boar, venison)
Aged hard cheeses (Comté, Pyrenean sheep’s cheese)
