Château Maris Minervois La Livinière Les Planels 2019
- jd92
- ws91
- d90
Category | Wine |
Varietals | |
Brand | Château Maris |
Origin | France, Languedoc-Roussillon, Minervois |
Alcohol/vol | 15% |
When we bought the vineyard in 1997 we wanted to make the best wines in the Languedoc while working in harmony with nature - that is without applying pesticides or other chemicals. We looked at natural ways of rejuvenating the soil using compost. First we carried out an experiment. Biodynamic preparations were added to one organic compost pile and another was left alone. After a while we discovered that the biodynamic pile contained far more living organisms and there was no doubt about the right course of action for the vineyard as a whole. Thanks to biodynamic methods, our vines are now healthier and grow longer - and the quality of grapes is better. Chateau Maris is now a 79-acre estate divided into a multitude of small vineyards on the hillside above the village of La Liviniere, the first Cru Classe of the Minervois, in the Languedoc region. We have been certified by Ecocert since 2002, Biodyvin since 2004 and Demeter since 2008.
Jeb Dunnuck
- jd92
The 2019 Minervois La Livinière Les Planels reveals a deep ruby purple color as well as a beautiful nose of ripe berries (black raspberries, blackberries), peppery garrigue, violets, iron, and a touch of chalky minerality. This ripe, medium to full-bodied, seamless Syrah (there's a splash of Grenache) has silky tannins, remarkable purity, and outstanding length. It benefits from a short decant and is a brilliant Minervois that will evolve for a solid decade.
Wine Spectator
- ws91
This sinewy red shows character with supple tannins that surround flavors of black cherry and blackberry notes underpinned by details of mocha, anise and spice. Brooding but with lots of freshness. Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. Drink now through 2028. 15,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.
Decanter
- d90
Attractively complex nose, blackcurrant, lavender and raspberry ripple. Deep, concentrated palate, toasty oak, tobacco, rich fruit expression and a lingering freshness. Blend: 80% Syrah, 20% Grenache.