Alain Chabanon - Le Merle aux Alouettes 2015
17/20
Bettane & Desseauve
One of the estate’s great reds. Grown on the Mas Garrigou plot, the vines thrive in exceptional soil composed of rounded pebbles resting on a bed of pure clay. Its natural character and vibrant quality are immediately captivating. 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 fruits (morello cherry, plum) and chocolate
Serve
Decant and serve at 15–17°C
Open
At least 2 hours before
Drink before
2029
Food and Wine Pairings
It will be served with spit-roasted chicken, truffle mashed potatoes, duck confit, grilled porcini mushrooms, and veal loin in a casserole...
Bettane & Desseauve
Wine rated 17/20 (2014 vintage) (Benchmark wine)
Winery rated 1*Star (A high-quality, recommendable production 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 among the most refined and fascinating winemakers. While some of his vintages were occasionally the subject of debate in the past, magnificent new facilities have enabled him to take a significant step forward. The aging profiles, which were previously quite noticeable, will evolve significantly with the shift to large oak vats instead of barrels. Concrete egg-shaped tanks for the Mourvèdre grapes have added freshness to the wines. A bit more body in the wines would allow the estate to compete at a higher level.
Guide Hachette des vins
Rated Estate: Award-Winning Wines (This producer’s wines regularly receive awards from 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 organically (certified in 2002) and biodynamically (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 just outside Montpeyroux in 1992 after learning the trade from 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 methods. Patience is key for these unvarnished and deeply textured wines, which are aged in stainless steel, concrete eggs, or large oak casks and bottled late, once they have mellowed. The overall impression is balanced and precise, with exemplary management of terroir expression and ripeness. We commend the work that has been done and the distinct personality of each wine.
Customer Rating
4.3/5
based on 3 reviews
Review and comment by Mr. CLAUDE H. Posted on March 16, 2023
Patience is key with this fine wine, which is always served too early.
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Review and opinion by Mr. RONAN L. Posted on June 1, 2022
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Review by Ms. JACQUELINE L. Published on November 11, 2019
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