Reviewed by
Evelyn
Wine lovers who enjoy trying out the finest wines from independent estates in France, will appreciate the quality that’s on offer from receiving a monthly subscription box from MyVitiBox. All of the wines that subscribers receive have been hand selected by the famed sommelier Philippe Defleur (former sommelier of La Tour d’Argent and the Élysée Palace) to guarantee that you’re receiving some of the best wines out there.
Philippe also includes his personal Tasting Notes on the selected wines with every box, so that you can learn more about the wines that you’re drinking, including their heritage and family estate values. The wines are shipped to the UK via courier and arrive in a shockproof box to ensure that there are no accidents on the way.
This month’s MyVitibox features two lovely bottles of red wine as part of their Colours and Flavours subscription.
Calicôt 2016, Le Clos du Chêne, IGP Côtes du Lot
History: Produced by the Domaine Clos du Chêne, a family estate that is now managed by their daughter, this specialised vineyard is a leader in sustainable viticulture that holds a strong emphasis on protecting and respecting the environment. Back in the 1970’s, the land was fully replanted which has allowed the vines to age in such a way that they can now truly express the fullness of the clay-based limestone soil. This paves the way for some classic Malbecs that are fruitier and fresher than one might expect.
Grape: This red is made from 100% Malbec grapes which are a growing speciality for this family run business. The vintage of 2016 was a fine year for wine-making in the region and this wine is full of those hot Spring and Summer flavours.
Senses: To the eye, this wine has a shiny purple-red colour, which is accompanied by a pleasant and expressively fruity aroma. Taste-wise, it’s surprisingly very dry, medium-bodied and fresh, with a smooth texture and a strong aftertaste of tannins. There are lots of lovely fruity notes of Blackberries and Red Currants, as well as hints of Licorice and Pepper. I really liked this one and it pairs well with Duck and Rabbit dishes, but I prefer it with a homemade Chocolate Pie!
Les Trois Côtes 2016, Côtes de Bourg
History: Next, we have an exceptional red wine that comes from an estate which is steeped in history. Maison de Luze was created in 1820 by Baron Alfred de Luze, a visionary man and fine negotiator, who took part in the conquest of the world by the wines of Bordeaux. Today it is known as Grands Vins de Gironde, and this institution is one of those big Bordeaux wine merchants that have built up a century-old knowledge to their business, and who contribute hugely to the success of the wines of the region.
Grape: This wine is a triple blend of Cabernet Franc (10%), Merlot (40%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (50%). Like the red above, it is also a 2016 vintage which was a fantastic year for wine-making in the Bordeaux region.
Senses: In the glass, this wine is a shiny deep garnet colour and it has a wonderfully pleasant fruity aroma which is matched with how it tastes. This dry, medium-bodied wine is bursting with fruity flavours with a blend of Raspberries, Blackcurrants, Blackberries, plus a touch of Pepper and Vanilla. It pairs well with several desserts such as Zucchini Flan and Rice Pudding with Strawberry Coulis. Beautiful!
