Le Fat Bastard, Pays d’Oc IGP (Languedoc-Roussillon, France) Pinot Noir 2020

 The story of the name of this wine is of two friends, Thierry and Guy, who collaborated on wine projects.  Thierry (the experienced French winemaker) was showing Guy (the British wine rebel) the result of an experiment with a wine that was left on its lees, the expired yeast cells from fermentation.  They were both happily surprised at the result, and Guy — speaking in a French accent — called it a “fat bastard.”  They both agreed, and a brand was born.  This is a very likable wine with a dark ruby color, forward black cherry and raspberry fruit spiked with dried roses balanced with palate cleaning acidity, and finishing with ripe, smooth tannins.