This time around Drinks International's editor Christian Davis runs the rule over one of his favourite varietals, Pinot Noir.
Le Versant Pinot Noir 2010 Vin de Pays d’Oc
Producer: Les Vignobles Foncalieu
Produced in: Languedoc Roussillon, southern France
ABV: 12.5%
Price: £7.95-£8.95
Packaging
Classy looking Burgundy-shaped bottle with understated, modern front label. Back label of this IGP (Indication Geographique Protégée) wine comprises the bare minimum - it could be more informative. Discerning wine drinkers want to know history and provenance and maybe a food matching suggestion. Otherwise, astute, attractive packaging at this price point.
Tasting notes
Nose: Attractive, light and fruity.
Taste: Light-to-medium bodied Pinot Noir (probably not 100%) with lively, fresh red fruit, redcurrants and some dark damsons.
Editor’s notes
You do not think of this warm Mediterranean region for thin-skinned cool climate loving Pinot Noir. Was it cultivated at elevation?
It is a pleasant easy drinking wine made in the New World, fruit forward style. No bitter, drying after taste from over extraction, something that dogs cheaper Pinot.
Rating (based on value and relevance to price point)
7/10
