Having explored and been blown away by many wines from Minervois and Roussillon, I was curious to see how Bertrand, former athletic hero and now the largest exporter of Languedoc wines, would handle them. His top-of-the-line Château l’Hospitalet is a beauty, and the 2015 Minervois La Liviniere is a winner for value. But the real test to me was this supermarket favorite, entry-level Languedoc. From its medium-dark color, bright appearance and black fruit, floral tinged aroma, it easily passed inspection. Medium-bodied with spicy berry and cola flavors, it ends with some Syrah-like spice, smoked meat and subtle grainy tannin notes. Nicely rendered and restrained.
Gerard Bertrand, Languedoc (France) Grenache / Syrah 2017
By Norm Roby