2016 Chateau Astruc Teramas Rouge Limoux

Château Astruc, at the foot of the Pyrenees, consists of 50 hectares, 25 of which are planted in the Limoux appellation. This is a unique terroir, very different from the rest of the Languedoc, where different climatic influences come together, with the Mediterranean and the Oceanic being the most important. On the hills of the Aude valley, Chardonnay is the king, but red grape varieties are also important: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec.

The Teramas Astruc comes from the Appelation Limoux and is a blend of 55% Merlot, 25% Syrah and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard is around 25 years old and is located on a limestone and chalk-like gravel soil. Age of the vineyard: 25 years old. Harvesting is manual and as usual at Paul Mas they do this at night and very early morning so that the fruit stays fresh and does not ferment and oxidize prematurely. The grapes are stalked and each grape variety is vinified separately. Fermentation takes place at 25 ° C 10 days maceration for the Cabernet, 12 days for Merlot, 12 days for Syrah under temperature control (maximum 28 ° C). The blend is made by Jean Claude in November. 60% of the mixture has aged in oak barrel for 8 months (60% American oak, 40% French). The remaining 40% mature in stainless steel barrels.

In the glass, the Teramas Astruc Rouge AOC Limoux is deep purple with ruby red hues. In the nose, the Teramas is elegant and complex with plum aromas, red berries and roasted notes. Intense aromas of ripe black fruit, coffee combined with sweet spices. On the palate the wine is well balanced, round, silky with soft tannins. As we often advise not to drink this wine too hot. Best served at 15/17 ° C. A delicious glass that is a good companion of red meat, game and terrines. Also delicious with a full meat and cheese board.