Beret Noir Saint-Mont Rouge 2018

Boasting crisp acidity and a plump texture, this medium-bodied red shows dark cherry, muddled plum and blackberry fruit, with sweet spice and floral accents. Lightly grippy tannins match with herb and mineral details on the finish.

Made from Tannat, the grape that produces the famous ‘black’ wine of Madiran in the Pyrenees. So called because that is what it used to stain drinker’s gums and clothes! The modern wines have, thankfully, been dialled back a bit and no longer provide employment opportunities for dentists! 

The rural cuisine of Gascony takes no prisoners and it needs red wines that can stand up to richly flavoured foods. The Beret Noir does this with gusto whilst still keeping masses of ripe fruit to the fore. It is still 100% Tannat but offering dark raspberry and 'bramble' flavours with soft, ripe tannins and a delightful finish on the palate.

The tannins leave a light but tell-tale 'grip' on the palate but they are so smooth that they emphasise how adaptable this wine is with meat.

We adore this with hearty rich slow cooked beef dishes. It also works well with peasant-style sausage and bean stews.

Nose: Lovely open nose with a bouquet of candied fruit, cocoa, leather and hints of sweet spices.

Palate: The finish has fairly dense and melted tannins, with a good length.

ABV 14%