2009 Domaine La Combe Blanche 'La Chandeliere' Minervois La Liviniere

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Mission Codename: The Chandelière

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Visit the Languedoc-Roussillon and acquire a delicious Syrah-Grenache blend.

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Domaine La Combe Blanche

Wine Subject: 2009 ‘La Chandelière’ Minervois La Livinière

Backgrounder:

The Minervois AOC, located in the Languedoc-Roussillon is situated inland from the coast just north of the Corbieres and west of the Coteaux du Languedoc. The vineyards in the area are dominated by its rocky clay and limestone soil, dry arid climate.

Today’s selection is from the Cru La Livinière which was officially designated in 1999. The red wines form the region are a blend of local grapes and must be at least 40% of one or more of the following grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre or Lladoner Pelut with the remainder being other local grapes. Known for its generally rustic style, good years can produce exceptional wines ranging from full designation to VDP. Today’s selection is 75% Syrah from 20 year old vines and 25% Grenache from vines that average 70 years old.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Dark garnet with its dense color that extends from its dense heart to the edge of the glass. Brighter garnet streaks shine through when held to the light and when swirled, this wine leaves widely and randomly spaced thin legs that descend at varying speeds to the wine below.

Smell – Rustic and earthy black cherry and blackberry lead the way with notes of spicy black pepper, black licorice and notes of cigar box and toasted oak that adds complexity.

Feel – Rich, full-bodied and dry, this wine has firm tannins that reach the far corners of the palate and dry the tongue, a touch of spice and lively acid blend with finely texture minerality that provide a smooth but rustic feel.

Taste – Lots of black cherry, blackberry, plum and cassis blend with earthy and spicy undertones. Classic Syrah black pepper and other spices blend with a touch of bittersweet chocolate, soft notes of licorice and graphite as well as a very subtle floral notes.

Finish – Long with the lingering fruit fading first with the spiced pepper oak and lastly minerality lasting and inviting another sip.

Conclusion – The 2009 Domaine La Combe Blanche ‘La Chandelière’ Minervois La Livinière is both a rich and classic Minervois old-world mouthfeel and minerality but plenty of rich and ripe fruit on the nose and palate to invite big sips. An array of classic Syrah aromas invites you in, well structured with rich rustic fruit are layered over other complex flavors. Give this wine some time to breathe to fully expose its full aromas and flavors. Drink now or cellar for three to five years and pair with anything from grilled burgers to herb crusted roast chicken.

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The approximate location of the Domaine La Combe Blanche in La Livinière, France can be seen in thissatellite photo.