From: Occitanie, Languedoc-Rousillon, France
Blend: Syrah
The 2021 L'Orangeraie Syrah is a proud representative of the L'orangeraie range, emblematic of essential grape varieties curated from the cooler, hilly terrains of Pays d'Oc. A beacon of modern winemaking, this wine is as vibrant in its flavor profile as in its ethos.
Taste: The L'Orangeraie Syrah has a deep garnet hue that characterizes it, tinged with the glow of ruby at its rim. It appears primarily opaque, subtly suggesting its dense richness. The nose starts with a delightful fusion of boysenberries – a berry less common but rich in flavor, paired with the unique scent of smoke. The initial taste introduces the palate to cranberries and black cherries. But it's the undertones of char that bring out the rustic authenticity of this Syrah.
It's unmistakably dry, boasting a full body and ripe tannins of medium intensity. The medium acidity balances this full-bodied nature, ensuring the wine remains vibrant and lively. Medium-intensity flavors emerge, dominated by the earthy aroma of tobacco, the lush, ripe taste of plum, and the irresistible black cherry, all leading to a moderately long finish.
Pairing: Imagine roasted peppers and root vegetables absorbing the rich flavors, creating a harmonious blend of taste sensations. Classic meat dishes, beef or veal, are a classic companion to this Syrah. But, for those looking for something more intricate, consider an eggplant and zucchini lasagna or a succulent pork filet mignon adorned with foie gras and rosemary. Pasta lovers would revel in a dish laced with veal stock sauce, each bite enhanced by the wine's character.
Spring Veal Stew
By Mark Bittman
About: Nestled in the serene landscapes of Pays d'Oc in Occitanie is the remarkable legacy of Château de Pennautier, an epicenter of Languedoc wines since 1620. For over four centuries, this estate has woven a tale of dedication, innovation, and reverence for nature, expressed beautifully in every bottle that emerges from its cellars.
Nicolas de Lorgeril and Miren de Saint Chamas, custodians of this legacy since 1987, have expanded beyond the ancestral walls of Château de Pennautier, overseeing a constellation of 6 estates (Including L'orangeraie) spanning 250 hectares across the picturesque Languedoc and Roussillon terroirs, including eight distinguished Appellations d'Origines Contrôlées, each reflecting a unique expression of the land.
The Lorgeril family's philosophy celebrates the synthesis of nature and nurture. As winegrowers and merchants, their wines are an ode to the pristine lands of Languedoc and Roussillon—landscapes of scrubland and mountains, refreshed by the Mistral, Cers, and Tramontane winds and tempered by the Mediterranean's gentle embrace. Pursuing balance, elegance, and freshness is embedded in their viticulture and vinification processes. This commitment is further exemplified by their dedication to sustainable agriculture, reflected in their 'High Environmental Value Level 3' certification, a testament to their unwavering commitment to environmental preservation.
