Reviewed by
Evelyn
October’s My VitiBox arrived a little later than usual, but when I opened it up, it was certainly worth the delay! As part of their popular Colours and Flavours subscription, subscribers will receive two bottles of high-quality wines which have been expertly chosen by the famed sommelier Philippe Defleur (former sommelier of La Tour d’Argent and the Élysée Palace).
The wines are well packaged in a shock-proof box to ensure safe arrival into the UK (they are shipped from France via courier) and there’s a handy Tasting Notes guide to help you learn more about that month’s featured wines.
Here’s what’s inside the latest My VitiBox:-
Mountain View Chenin Blanc, L’Avenir 2017
History: Starting with the bottle of white, here we have something unusual and different for My VitiBox who generally only send French wines as this one is from South Africa. Philippe explains in the accompanying booklet that South African wines from the Stellenbosch region are among his favourites and that Chenin Blanc wines from here have less acidity than those traditionally found in the Loire Valley. This allows the wines to have different flavours and Domaine de L’Avenir has been producing wonderful wines since 1992.
Grape: A simply elegant and pure wine composed of 100% Chenin Blanc grapes, which grow differently in the South African climate to produce an array of subtle fruity notes.
Senses: When poured into the glass, it has a clear straw yellow colour with a sensational shine, whilst on the nose, it’s easy to detect an expressive and pleasant aroma of White Fruits with Citrus and Floral notes. This is matched on the palate with a lively, medium-bodied structure and bone-dry finish, with fruity notes of Pear, Apple and Lemon. Pairs well with fish dishes, Camembert and fruity desserts such as Apricot Pie.
Les Charmes de Liversan, Haut-Médoc 2017
History: For the red, we’re back in the comfort zone of France with an estate that has a long history which dates back to Marquis de Latresne in the 17th Century. Nowadays, Liversan is part of Antoine Moueix’s properties and has been the success of Philippe Marchal who was sent to the estate to improve its business qualities.
Grape: An interesting and complex blend here with 50% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Each grape has been carefully chosen in proportion for its unique flavours to create this very fine red wine.
Senses: A beautiful classic cherry red colour with a shiny appearance and an expressive and pleasant aroma bursting with Black Fruits and Spices. I really enjoyed the taste which is fresh, bone-dry and medium-bodied coupled with strong and marked tannins. Fruity notes of Blackcurrant and Blackberry work well with the Coffee, Cocoa and Black Pepper undertones. Very Christmassy! Pairs well with Eggplant dishes, soft blue cheeses and Chocolate Cheesecake.
