Winestore.co.uk Ltd Château La Villatade

Château La Villatade *Award winning wines from the Minervois*

Situated in the western half of the Minervois, 15km North of Carcassonne in the land of the "Côtes Noires", La Villatade is spread over 120 hectares, made-up of fir trees, heath and 22 hectares of vineyards. Surrounded by hills and protected by the Black Mountain to the North, the estate has enjoys views over to the Minervois Plain and the rugged outline of the Pyrenees.

The history of the estate is uncertain. It goes back to Roman times (from where it gets its name). Later it is thought to have been a monastery. The present owners Denis and Sophie Morin were charmed by the natural beauty of the area, as they were by the vineyards on the slopes surrounding the house and cellar.

Their objective is to produce 'agreeable and expressive wines' from their terroir and the diverse and modern nature of their wines is a reflection of great winemaking, great terroir and a serious passion for wine. Check out www.villatade.com for more information.

Château La Villatade 'Le Vin de Sophie 2006 (75cl)

A blend of Merlot, Carignan and Alicante, Vin de Sophie has a seductive bouquet of small red berry fruits followed by a fresh, lively and vivacious palate. Above all, Denis and Sophie wanted to make this wine accessible and a pleasure to drink and share with friends. Try is slightly chilled with an aperitif or lunch.

Price: £6.96 (Including VAT at 17.5%)

Château La Villatade Villa d'Oc 2006 (75cl)

A fleshy and powerful vin de Pays d'Oc that takes you immediately to a hot, mediterranean climate. The palate is flattering with generous and a very typical mixture of fruits and spices. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Price: £7.50 (Including VAT at 17.5%)

Château La Villatade Sanguine 2006 (75cl)

100% Syrah, this wine exudes freshness and red fruits. With aromas of olives, mint and thyme, the palate is generous with supple tannins. Drinking very well now.

Price: £8.50 (Including VAT at 17.5%)

Château La Villatade Minervois Rouge 2006 (75cl)

A perfect marriage of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan (in different proportions depending on the year), this is a traditionally made Minervois with a deep strong colour. The nose is, jam, plum and liquorice. Its initial palate is decisive, very fruity with a touch of mint and musk at the finish. The tannins are pleasantly firm (and will no doubt soften with age).

Price: £8.95 (Including VAT at 17.5%)

Château La Villatade Rituel 2004 (75cl)

It is only by respecting winemaking rules and traditions that this excellent wine is created. Prime 'terroir', gentle vinification and careful maturation (for more than 18 months) are essential factors and it no accident that this blend of Syrah and the Grenache shows great finesse and distinction.

The colour is dark ruby and after an explosion of aromas (red fruits and thyme), the palate is generous with a subtle blend of fruit and spices. Simply delicious!

Price: £11.95 (Including VAT at 17.5%)

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