Gilles Chabbert with his brother Eric had the ambition to place each of their wine in the top of their class. They managed this well, but there are others of course, yet none achieve the fine value Domaine Aires Hautes is known for in Minervois.
The brothers believe in sustainable viticulture, but couldn’t be bothered to register for organic certification. This has now changed with the 2016 vintage, and they offer two entry level white wines and a couple lighter Minervois reds. The top cuvee will in the future certified as well.
Clos d’Escandil would lead any ranking for bang for the buck. Here you have a world class wine at a fraction of a price, which other appellations would command. Old vine Syrah, Grenache and Carignan, aged for 18 months in oak barrels from Burgundy. The fruit is sweet, the texture velvety, and wine very smooth. We would not be as impressed, if it weren’t for the beautiful balance and fine acidity on the palate.
A fine red wine from the South, that evokes late summer feelings. Please try!
Great post 🙂