Domaine de L’Ostal
Grand Vin

AOC Minervois La Livinière

Traditional grape varieties for a demanding appellation

The Domaine de L’Ostal Grand Vin is the essence of the domaine. Its appellation Minervois La Livinière is one of the most demanding in the Languedoc region as this AOC is produced by as little as 30 winemakers who adhere to a rather Draconian set of regulations.

Firstly, the grapes are carefully selected according to strict criteria which retains less than a third of the terroir's total production, giving priority to two Mediterranean varieties: Syrah (90 %) and Grenache (10 %). This Grand Vin is then aged for 15 months in French oak barrels.

Syrah brings depth

The traditional planting ratio gives the wine its intense ruby hue and bright core. Its bouquet displays red fruits, violet and spicy notes such as vanilla and licorice. The oily and fleshy attack evolves into velvety tannins which are backed up by a pleasant freshness. A wine with good potential for bottle age.

The label depicts an iridescent black solar disc which represents the extraordinary phenomenon of a total eclipse.

Vintages

2011 remained a particularly favourable year from the point of view of rainfall, giving rise to a healthy and abundant harvest. Winter and spring having seen above-average rainfall, the vine’s vegetative cycle was able to get under way without any undue water stress. During the summer, spells of sunshine and wind immediately followed the rain, contributing greatly towards maintaining the good initial sanitary state.Grand Vin harvesting period began on the 9th of September for the youngest vines and finish with the Carignan the 4th of October.

This wine presents a complex first nose with hints of woodiness and menthol. Swirling the wine releases intense aromas of cherry jam and honeysuckle to round off the breadth of the bouquet. On the palate, the generous, full-bodied attack reveals a solid structure with perfectly ripe tannins. The combination of lovely acidity and outstanding smoothness completes the balance of this wine, which is crowned with a finish on toasty aromas.

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Ageing:

15 months in French oak wine barrel

Blending:

70 % Syrah, 15 % Carignan, 10 % Grenache, 5 % Mourvèdre