Description

Description

This South-West France red is a great everyday wine – the best sub £10 wine I have found this year. It’s a blend of native Gaillac varieties, Duras and Braucol (also known as Fer) that combine to great effect. The slightly mineral edge and brisk acidity really bring out the bright red fruit flavours and make it a delightfully moreish wine. Very food friendly working with rustic stews, grilled red meat and hard cheeses.

Grape

Duras is only really found in the upper reaches of the Tarn, in Gaillac, the Côtes de Millau and the Vins d’Estaing in South-West France. It makes robust red wines with a peppery note that are typically blended with other traditional varieties such as Fer and Négrette. Fer is tannic and rustic aromas of rhubarb and smoke. It is also only found in the South-West France.

Producer

Cave de Labastide de Levis is one of the biggest Gaillac cooperatives in the South-West of France. It was founded in 1949 and has grown steadily over the years. They are a thoroughly modern operation and produce typical regional wines that offer great value for money.

Region

Gaillac is a historic wine producing region located just northeast of Toulouse, in the southwest of France. It is one of France’s oldest viticultural areas, established in Roman times. The region is best known for its richly coloured, spice-scented red wines, which were historically used to beef up Bordeaux. To those in the know, these can offer excellent value for money. The primary grape varieties used for Gaillac’s red and rosé wines are Duras, Braucol (or Brocol, aka Fer Servadou) and Syrah. Together must comprise at least 60% of the final blend.

Food Pairing

Gaillac reds with their spicy, smoky character and good acidity are versatile food wines working with rustic stews like wild boar, cassoulet and hard cheeses.