Domaine de Montahuc ‘Canyon de l’Église’ Red - Minervois, Languedoc, France
Juicy, savoury and wonderfully approachable, Canyon de l’Église is a fresh expression of Minervois that favours purity and balance over excessive weight. Aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry and plum are joined by fragrant notes of wild herbs, dried flowers and black pepper. The palate is supple and rounded, with generous red fruit, gentle spice and smooth, integrated tannins. A lively mineral freshness carries through the finish, making this an especially versatile southern French red.
The wine combines 60% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 10% Carignan from dry-farmed vines more than 20 years old, trained in both the traditional gobelet and Cordon de Royat systems. The vineyards lie between 280 and 300 metres above sea level on the shallow, stony lacustrine limestone plateau of Saint-Jean-de-Minervois. Grapes are harvested entirely by hand, then vinified and matured for 12 months in concrete tanks, preserving the freshness and aromatic clarity of the fruit without any oak influence. The cuvée is named for a vineyard overlooking a forested canyon and the small church of Dieuvaille below.
Grape Variety: 60% Syrah, 30% Grenache, 10% Carignan
Style: Red – Dry, medium-bodied, juicy and savoury
Drink Window: Now – 8 years
Perfect For: Tapas, grilled sausages, roast chicken, lamb kebabs, stuffed vegetables, rustic casseroles and semi-firm cheeses
A charming, fruit-driven Minervois with supple tannins, fragrant garrigue character and a refreshing peppery finish - delicious at the dinner table or served slightly cool on a warm evening.
