Domaine de L’Ostal Estibals, AOC Minervois

AOC Minervois

It takes its name from one of the domaine’s finest parcels... ‘‘Estibals’’. Domaine de L’Ostal Estibals is made from a blend of the youngest vines that do not meet criteria for the Grand Vin of Domaine de L’Ostal. The balance between Syrah, Carignan and Grenache provides a perfect expression of the Minervois appellation.

The wine is aged mainly partially in French oak barrels for 12 months.

A rich, smooth and sun-drenched wine

With its beautiful garnet red color, lively and shiny, Domaine de L’Ostal Estibals offers notes of small red berries (blackcurrant, raspberries, blueberries), thyme, rosemary and a touch of fresh licorice. An elegant and generous wine with a nice balance between freshness, roundness and acidity. Its structure is harmonious and its tannins are dense and silky.

The bronze disc on the label brings to mind the warm and sun-drenched character of wines from Minervois.

Vintages

The winter was mild with temperatures (2 to 4°C) above the seasonal average between December and March and a significant amount of rainfall, replenishing the soils’ water reserves well after the 2019 harvests were completed.

The vines emerged from their slumber earlier than expected and their growth cycle began around ten days early.

The spring was temperate with regular heavy rainfall, resulting in the development of downy mildew in the region, although this was contained perfectly on our vines thanks to the hard work of our teams.

The month of June was rather cool and dry, followed by warmer and dryer weather in July and August, but with no heatwaves – good conditions for even grape ripening.

Hot days alternating with cool nights created perfect conditions for building up tannins and anthocyanins and ensuring perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, which meant great aromatic potential for the 2020 vintage!

The grapes were harvested in an excellent state of health over a very short period, allowing longer and more precise work in the vats.

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Ageing:

30% of the syrah are aging 12 months in French oak barrels.

Blending:

60% syrah, 20% grenache, 20% carignan