Chateau de Cremat Bellet Rouge 2022

Drink it now or cellar for up to 20 years. No need to decant, but best to open it an hour before service. Built in 1906, by Antoine Mari, Château de Crémat is located on the hills just above Nice. The estate, which today extends over 12 hectares of vineyards in the little-known Bellet appellation, was taken over by the Derichebourg family in 2017. Bellet Rouge is a blend of organically grown Folle Noir and Grenache grapes harvested manually from vineyards located at an altitude of 230 meters with a south/south east exposure. Here the vines rest their roots on a poor stony, clay-silica-limestone soil called Poudingue. The grapes benefit from sea breezes that favor the health of the plants. After fermentation and a period of maceration on the skins, the finished wine ages for 12 months in 500-liter truncated cone-shaped oak vats and demi-muids. The wine has a bright garnet color with purple reflections and a lively and intense aromatic profile. The nose reveals notes of blackberry, morello cherry, and blackcurrant, with hints of violet in the background. On the palate, it is expressive and floral, round and smooth. It has a medium body and a refreshing acidity. The tannins are velvety and the long, harmonious finish recalls notes of sweet spices and cocoa. Excellent with a red onion Tarte Tatin, roast beets, or a juicy entrecote.

Price: £22.48 from 8wines UK