From: Languedoc, France
Blend: 50% Syrah, 20% Carignan, and 30% Mourvèdre
Taste: It presents a beautiful deep purple color with glimmers of ruby reflections. The first swirl releases an intense and perfumed bouquet of light tobacco, leather, and sweet clove spice, followed by subtle undertones of dark berries, black cherries, and Mediterranean herbs. Upon the first sip, the palate is greeted with a smooth and fresh attack, revealing a silky texture and well-integrated tannins. The wine's structure is supported by a harmonious balance of acidity and fruitiness, highlighting flavors of succulent cherry jam, menthol, and hints of licorice. The finish lingers with a touch of black pepper and an earthy, mineral quality that is characteristic of the Minervois terroir.
Pairing: This versatile Minervois red wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, particularly those with rich flavors and textures. Consider pairing it with hearty stews (check out a recipe below!), grilled or roasted meats, and vegetable-based dishes that feature bold flavors and spices. Some examples include beef bourguignon, eggplant parmigiana, and mushroom risotto.
In keeping with the wine's origins in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France, traditional dishes from the area make excellent pairings. Consider serving the 2021 Domaine Coudoulet Château Cesseras Minervois Cuvée Olric alongside cassoulet, a slow-cooked dish of white beans, meats, and sausages, or a ratatouille, a vegetable medley cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
For vegetarian options, look for dishes that offer a balance of flavors and textures to complement the wine's complexity. A hearty lentil and vegetable stew with a touch of spice, a rich mushroom stroganoff with a creamy sauce, or a vegetable and bean chili with a smoky undertone would all pair beautifully with this Minervois red wine. Alternatively, try serving it with a flavorful cheese and vegetable tart or a vegetable-based paella for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Lamb Stew With Chickpeas and Butternut Squash
By Molly O’Neill
About. The 2021 Domaine Coudoulet Château Cesseras Minervois Cuvée Olric is an elegant and complex red wine that not only offers a delightful sensory experience but also reflects the rich history and culture of the Minervois region in the Languedoc-Roussillon area of Southern France.
A harmonious blend of 50% Syrah, 20% Carignan, and 30% Mourvèdre, this beautiful purple wine with ruby reflections showcases an intense, perfumed nose with notes of light tobacco, leather, and sweet clove spice. The palate is smooth and fresh, revealing a silky texture and delightful flavors of cherry jam, menthol, liquorice, and a peppery finish.
The Minervois region, whose history of winemaking dates back to the Romans and beyond, is named after the city of Minerve, which was in turn named after the Roman goddess Minerva. Known for wisdom, poetry, arts, and magic, Minerva and her divine counterpart Dionysus are believed to have played a part in the region's bountiful production of robust, spicy red wines.
Domaine Coudoulet, Château Cesseras Cuvée Olric is a concentrated and powerful Languedoc-Roussillon red that captures the essence of the region's warm Mediterranean climate. The wine's aromatic profile, marked by herbs and thyme, and its rich palate, laden with notes of scorched earth and macerated plums, pay homage to the region's terroir.
The Ournac brothers, Jean-Yves and Pierre-André, are the sixth generation of winemakers at Domaine Coudoulet. Over the past decade, they have replanted their vineyards with parcels of Syrah, Chardonnay, and Viognier, earning a reputation for their top-quality and well-priced Syrah and Viognier wines. Domaine Coudoulet's 2021 Château Cesseras Minervois Cuvée Olric is a vegan wine, reflecting a commitment to sustainable winemaking practices.
Pairing this exquisite red wine with traditional dishes such as cassoulet, beef, pasta, or veal highlights the flavors and textures of both the wine and the food. The rustic, bold styles of the Syrah, Carignan, and Grenache Noir grapes complement the rich fat and proteins found in the classic cassoulet, while the wine's tannin and acidity balance the dish's hearty nature.
In conclusion, the 2021 Domaine Coudoulet Château Cesseras Minervois Cuvée Olric is a testament to the ancient wisdom and divine influences that have shaped the Minervois region's winemaking history. As you savor this exquisite wine, raise your glass in appreciation of the rich cultural heritage that has brought forth such a delightful and complex offering from the Languedoc-Roussillon area.
