Alain Chabanon - L'Esprit de Font Caude 2008
Rating: Robert Parker 87–88/100, RVF 17.5/20
“In 2008, L'Esprit de Font Caude enchants us with its kaleidoscopic flavors, a myriad of fruit and spice notes that come together to form a wine full of richness and aromatic nobility. ” (Le Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2014 - RVF). The estate’s iconic cuvée: rich and elegant!
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Eye
a beautiful deep crimson dress
Nose
with distinct notes of black berries, plum, and bay leaf
Palate
rich, smooth texture, with aromas of tamarind, nutmeg, plum, black pepper, and toasted nuts
Serve
decant at 15-17°C
Open
2 hours before
Drink from
2013
Drink before
2021
Production
5,500 bottles and 200 magnums
Food and wine pairings
A déguster sur une daube de boeuf, des viandes rouges, une volaille fermière rôtie, un plateau de fromages...<br/>
Bettane & Desseauve
Winery rated 1 star (A high-quality, recommended wine that lives up to what one would expect from its appellation(s))
About the estate:
Having settled in Montpeyroux in 1992, after stints at Château Montus and in Corsica, Alain Chabanon also cultivates vineyards in Jonquières, Saint-André, Lagamas, and Saint-Saturnin. A pioneer in organic winemaking, Alain is one of the most refined and fascinating winemakers around. While certain vintages were sometimes controversial in the past, magnificent new facilities have allowed the estate to take a step forward. The aging styles, which were previously noticeable, will evolve significantly with the shift to large oak casks instead of barrels. Concrete egg-shaped tanks for the Mourvèdre grapes have added freshness. A bit more body in the wines would allow the estate to compete in a higher category.
Guide Hachette des vins
Rated Estate Award-winning Wines (This producer's wines are regularly recognized by the guide)
About the estate:
The son of teachers and a winemaking engineer, Alain Chabanon acquired vineyards in 1992 in Montpeyroux and the surrounding villages. He built his winery in the middle of his vineyard (17 hectares), which is cultivated using organic methods (certified in 2002) and biodynamic practices (2011).
RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France
Rated estate (2026 guide) 2*Stars (These exceptional estates, often boasting fabulous terroirs, are must-haves that, thanks to the consistency and excellence of their wines, deserve a place in the cellars of discerning wine lovers)
About the estate:
Alain Chabanon settled in 1992 on the outskirts of Montpeyroux after learning the trade under Alain Brumont in Madiran and Count Peraldi on the Isle of Beauty. A dedicated and inspired winemaker, he quickly distinguished himself through hard work in the vineyard and bold decisions regarding viticultural practices, blends, and aging. Patience is key for these unpretentious, highly tactile wines, which are aged in stainless steel, concrete eggs, or large oak casks and bottled late after they have mellowed. The overall impression is balanced and precise, with exemplary management of terroir expression and ripeness. We applaud the work put into these wines and the distinct personality of each one.