NORD SUD 07 LAURENT MIQUEL
Winemaker Laurent Miquel produces this Syrah from mature, naturally low-yielding vines at his family estate high in the hills of the Languedoc, South of France. Vines are planted in the optimum North-South (hence Nord Sud) orientation, meaning that the grapes are exposed to the gentle warmth of the morning and evening rays but protected from the burning effects of the midday sun. Laurent originally qualified as a mechanical engineer and received a masters degree in quality management from Leeds University until the passion of his father and the call of the grapes reached him. While wines from the Languedoc traditionally have been more about volume, quenching the thirst of the working class over the last century, Miquel believes, like his father before him did, that the land and terroir show potential for better, high quality wines. With bottlings like this, somehow we think others will start to share their belief.The nose is rich, fruit-laden and earthy, with notes of black plum, cherry and tapenade leading to a layer of spice and earth and a touch of cassis-- seriously good nose. In the mouth, sweet raspberry and mixed berry fruits meld with pepper spice, minerality and a good dose of acidity, leading to a brief but enjoyable finish. Very much in balance, this one drinks great solo but will bolster many meals, from BBQ to spring lamb, roast beef to aged cheeses.
