Mas Coutelou 5SO Formidable 2024

Mas Coutelou 5SO Formidable is a natural red from Jean-Francois Coutelou, who works his family estate a few kilometres from Beziers in Languedoc-Roussillon. It is made entirely from Cinsault, a southern French variety that ripens well in the warm climate yet keeps a light body, pale colour and gentle tannins. Coutelou farms organically and works with minimal intervention, fermenting with native yeasts and adding very little sulphur, which keeps the wine fresh, transparent and easy to drink. Cinsault picked for freshness gives bright red fruit rather than heavy extract, and the low-intervention approach preserves its floral side. Expect a light ruby colour, a nose of raspberry, cherry and a touch of rose and red currant, and a juicy, low-tannin palate that finishes clean with a light peppery note. This is a red to serve cool, at around 13 degrees, and it drinks happily on its own or with lighter dishes. Try it with roast chicken, charcuterie or a herb salad.