Alain Chabanon - Le Merle aux Alouettes 2015
17/20
Bettane & Desseauve
One of the estate’s finest reds. Grown on the Mas Garrigou vineyard, the vines thrive in exceptional soil composed of rounded pebbles resting on a bed of pure clay. Its natural character and vibrant quality are instantly appealing. It offers aromas of spices, smoky notes, lavender, and ripe fruit, with a lovely freshness on the finish.
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Eye
Deep black dress
Nose
Aromas of licorice, thyme, and forest floor
Palate
Full-bodied and smooth, with a beautiful structure and notes of dark fruit (morello cherry, plum) and chocolate
Serve
Let it breathe in a decanter and serve at 15–17°C
Open
At least 2 hours before
Drink before
2029
Food and wine pairings
Pairs well with spit-roasted chicken, truffle mashed potatoes, duck confit, grilled porcini mushrooms, and veal tenderloin in a casserole...
Bettane & Desseauve
Wine rated 17/20 (2014 vintage) (Benchmark wine)
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.
Customer rating
4.3/5
based on 3 reviews
Review by Mr. CLAUDE H. Posted on March 16, 2023
Patience is key with this fine wine, which is always served too young.
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Review by Mr. RONAN L. Published on June 1, 2022
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Review by Ms. JACQUELINE L. Posted on 11/11/2019
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