Croix des Vents Merlot IGP Pays dOc

This project focuses on Bordeaux varietals made in an accessible yet complex fashion from warm-climate vineyard in the South of France. Croix des Vents wines are named after a compass, symbol of the four winds. It is so called because these wines are produced in the far South of France, between the Mediterranean coast and the Cevennes. Here, the mountains embrace the vineyards of the Pays d'Oc appellation like an amphitheatre and offer a rough and rocky terroir for the vines to grow. In this windy area, where the vines sway in the cool mountain breezes, you can often see weathercocks perched on the top of the wineries, watching over the vineyards and cloudy skies ahead.

The Pays d'Oc region benefits from the Mediterranean climate which provides hot, dry summers for a perfect maturity. On the other side, the Montagne Noire brings enough humidity and cool temperatures for the vineyards to produce grapes packed with rich, fruity notes yet with balanced structure and freshness.

Ripe grapes are essential to produce a good Merlot, which is why the winemaker looks for the perfect time to harvest each particular vineyard. A small part of the crop goes through thermovinifiction in order to support the variety's supple fruity side. The rest of the grapes are destemmed, macerated and fermented following the traditional method for about three weeks. This part of the process establishes varietal character and extracts structure and supporting tannins.

Grape: 100% Merlot

Tasting Note: Seductive aromas of dark plum, spice and mocha leading to a medium-full palate buttressed by soft, ripe tannins an tremendous depth for the price.

Food Match: Perfect with roasted duck and pizza.

Farming Practices: Contains Sulfites

Closure: Screwcap

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