Chapoutier Marius Rouge 2018  £12.95

Chapoutier Marius Rouge 

Grenache and Syrah are two Rhodanian grape varieties. During the conception of this vintage, the winemakers wanted to achieve an impression of generosity, complexity, and elegance. A natural choice was made by them to select the Grenache variety, which is average and undergoes a regular maceration. This enables them to produce wines which are gourmand, pleasant, and balanced and which have a nice tinge. They have also chosen the Syrah whose strength balances the natural sweetness of Grenache grapes. Grenache grapes are harvested first as they have a significant maturation capacity, which rapidly leads to the over the maturity of aromas. Such aromas are sought after for well-known Roussillon wines. However, this is not the case for Marius wines. Lastly, the Syrah variety is harvested when phenolic maturity has been achieved. Frequent visits are made to the vineyards so as to monitor these maturities. The crop macerates for ten days at a controlled and fresh temperature so that the tannins and the fresh fruit aromas invade the juices of the wine without compromising the balance we want to achieve. The pumping of the wine from the vat over the must for extraction is practiced as delicately as possible. Upon their satisfaction with both balances, the grapes are pressed. As soon as the alcoholic fermentation has ended, the wines are racked many times and left to mature without any sulphur on fine lees so as to reinforce their complexity which is much appreciated at M. Chapoutier. The two grape varieties are therefore vinified separately. The complexity of Marius Rouge is then revealed by our wine blending know-how. The addition of a small amount of grape juice optimises the balance of different acids and counter-balances the robustness of the Syrah grape, provides an elegant and gourmet touch.

In appearance, this wine is densely red with deep purple glints which is accompanied with powerful, complex, dark, spicy, red berries, delicate floral touch. To taste there is a powerful, concentrated, and structured attack on the tastebuds with a tinge of silky tannins and red fruit aromas. It is recommended to serve this wine between 10 and 12°C during an aperitif or a meal among friends.