Mas Coutelou Amphore 2021

Jean-Francois Coutelou, known as Jeff, runs the family estate Mas Coutelou near Beziers in Languedoc-Roussillon, with thirteen hectares of organic vineyards farmed for biodiversity in a warm Mediterranean climate. This Vin de France is a single-varietal Syrah made as a natural wine, organic and vegan, with no additions in the cellar. It is raised in clay amphora rather than oak, so the porous terracotta allows gentle oxygen exchange to soften the wine without imparting any wood flavour, keeping the fruit and the peppery character of Syrah in clear focus. Working without added sulphur until bottling demands clean, ripe, healthy fruit and careful handling throughout. The Mediterranean warmth ripens the Syrah fully, while the variety holds its signature savoury edge. The colour is bright purple-red. The nose shows fresh raspberry and plum, cracked black pepper, green olive, smoke and a wild herb note. The palate is medium to full bodied, supple and juicy, with soft tannin and a fresh, savoury finish. Serve lightly cool at 15 to 16 degrees, and decant briefly if it shows any reduction. It suits grilled meat and char.