Les Vignes de Bila-Haut L’esquerda 2019

Les Vignes de Bila-Haut is Michel Chapoutier's Roussillon range, farmed with respect for natural balance by a house founded in 1808 and long associated with biodynamic viticulture. L'Esquerda is a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan from Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, with the grapes grown at around 350 metres on gently sloping ground of granitic soils. Granite drains freely and reflects heat, giving ripe, concentrated fruit, while the altitude and the diurnal temperature swing keep acidity and aromatic freshness intact in an otherwise warm Mediterranean climate. The blend plays to each grape: Syrah for dark fruit and pepper, Grenache for red fruit and warmth, Carignan for structure and colour. The wine is deep ruby, almost opaque. The nose is ripe and spiced, with blackberry and plum, black pepper, dried thyme and the wild garrigue herbs of the region, backed by a smoky, mineral note. The palate is full bodied and generous, the tannins firm but ripe, the finish long and warming. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, and decant an hour ahead. It is built for roast lamb, grilled red meat and hearty stews.