Southern France has for some been known for mass-produced wines, but good quality wines are made and the quality in general is rising. This wine comes from Château L’Hospitalet, La Clape – close to Narbonne by the Mediterranean Sea.

The grape varieties used are the GSM-blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. The producer is the famous Gerard Bertrand, who owns and co-operates with many co-operatives and growers in Languedoc-Roussillon region. The price is 189 SEK, and the nr 73142 at Systembolaget.

This is a very pleasant wine, which has been oak matured for one year in French barriques giving notes of cloves, vanilla and chocolate and very integrated but still present tannins and structure. There are lovely notes of lavendel, black plums and blackberries as well as bay leafs, figs and black pepper with hints of licorice.

This wine has a full body, with very nicely integrated acidity with its pronounced flavours and pleasant finish. It is easy to combine with both spicy vegetarian dishes and most meat dishes. Very good with grilled or oven cooked meals with creamy spicy sauces. I give this wine 93 points and find it very enjoyable!