Wine of the Week: Mas Belles Eaux Les Coteaux

Languedoc wines are not all that well known to wine drinkers in the US. This is obviously a shame as many are very similar in structure and quality to wines from the Rhone Valley at a lesser price. Due to its location on the coast of the Mediterranean and at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, the Languedoc benefits from hot, dry summers and relatively mild winters.

The vineyard of Mas Belles Eaux stretches over the hillsides of the southeast Languedoc. The vineyards of Mas Belles Eaux are planted solely with the traditional grape varieties of the Languedoc: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Carignan. The Les Coteaux parcel is divided up exclusively of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre and are situated half-way up the hillside for optimum exposure to the sun.

2005, Mas Belles Eaux Les Coteaux, Languedoc, France - $18

Overall, this was a fun wine. The aromas of spice, oak and red berries led to a very nice and lively palate of raspberries, cherries and smoke. The body is medium to full-bodied and shows some nice complexity.

2005 was a terrific year all around in France and the Languedoc was no exception. Wine Spectator gave the ‘05 a 91 pt rating and although this was a fun wine, I would give it an 89. However, the price point on this wine is terrific and makes it a clear bargain!

This wine is available at the NH Liquor store off of Exit 6 (behind the Nashua Mall).

Wine of the Week: Mas Belles Eaux Les Coteaux