Abbotts & Delaunay Metayage Pinot Noir ECO IGP PAYS DOC 2022

Abbotts & Delaunay Métayage Pinot Noir ECO IGP Pays d'Oc 2022

Basic information

Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir, certified organic.

Year: 2022

Region: IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, France, more specifically in the high-altitude calcareous plots of the Limoux area, at the foot of the upper Languedoc.

Alcohol content: Approximately 13.5% vol.

Vinification & terroir

The grapes are harvested in the morning to preserve freshness and aromatic finesse.

Vinification takes place partly in concrete vats and partly in stainless steel tanks, with maceration (skin contact) over 2-3 weeks to extract color and flavor without becoming too heavy.

Part of the aging continues in concrete vats, while another part is in wooden barrels — but the barreling and wooden vats are well integrated, so that the wood tones complement the grape expression rather than dominate. The temperature is monitored during summer periods to keep the wine in balance.

Aroma and flavor profile

Color: A beautiful, clear ruby ​​red color with nuances of blue/red berries.

Nose: Aromas of red and blue berries — raspberries, blueberries, maybe a little cherry — with undertones of floral notes and a subtle touch of wood. There are also hints of menthol and rhubarb, which add a bit of freshness and distinctiveness.

Taste: On the tongue you experience a round and soft entrance with good fruit, fullness and maturity. The acidity is present and gives the wine finesse, while the tannins are elegant and afterwards a slightly spicy and fresh finish. The wood notes help to add complexity without being overpowering.

Food pairing and serving

Serving temperature: Around 16-18 °C , so that the wine's aromas and structure come out best.

Food pairing: Suitable for lighter meat dishes such as chicken and turkey, beef without too strong sauces, pork, as well as mushroom and vegetable dishes. Also good companions for charcuterie and cheeses with moderate strength.

Overall rating

Abbotts & Delaunay’s Métayage Pinot Noir 2022 offers a beautiful combination of grape fruit, terroir and winemaking craftsmanship. It shows how Pinot Noir can be successfully grown in Languedoc under organic conditions — with a balance of ripeness and freshness, and with enough complexity to satisfy wine lovers, but accessibility enough for many to enjoy now.