From time to time, I receive wines samples from wineries or their public relations agencies for review.  I feature such samples here on #WineWednesday Review. This week it’s the 2014 M. Chapoutier Côtes du Roussillon Villages Les Vignes de Bila-Haut

About Domain Bila-Haut

Domaine Bila-Haut is the passion project of famed Rhone/Hermitage producer, Michel Chapoutier. As head of  Maison M. Chapoutier, he has been producing some of the greatest wines from Hermitage, Côte Rôtie, Chateauneuf du Pape, Saint-Joseph, and Crozes Hermitage.

“Roussillon has the potential to be as great as Bordeaux, Burgundy or the Rhone” – Michel Chapoutier

In 1999 Chapoutier purchased a neglected 190 acre estate on the slopes of the Agly Valley in Roussillon.  The estate is located in the commune of Latour-de-France – as close as you can get to Spain while remaining in France.  He was intrigued by the land’s varied mix of schist, gneiss, limestone chalk and clay. It is harsh terrain dotted by scrappy bushes, sparse tree and while herbs that perfume the air – smoky rosemary, thyme, juniper, lavender and olive.

Most of the vines are farmed biodynamically and most are certified organic. The “Les Vignes” is produced from the mixed terroirs of the Roussillon.

In addition to this wine, Bila-Haut produces a white, and a rosé.

At Bila-Haut, Chapoutier has been free to let his imagination go, creating wine that are relaxed as a long leisurely summer’s day.

2014 M. Chapoutier Côtes du Roussillon Villages Les Vignes de Bila-Haut

Dark ruby color with promising black cherry, plum, black berry and garrigue aromas underscored with an appealing savory note. On the palate it’s medium-bodied, and juicy with a supple texture, and lively acidity. On the palate it’s medium-bodied with lively acidity and ample easy to like black cherry, plum, blackberry, vanilla and sweet spice flavors and a satisfying finish. Blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. Retail – $15 Very Good (88-89 pts)

This is a great everyday wine made for the table.  I’ve purchased and enjoyed this Bila-Haut wine in the past. I heartily recommend seeking out this wine.  You’ll be amply rewarded with an easy-drinking, yet quite complex wine that drink above its price point!

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this wine at no cost from Maison M. Chapoutier and  Creative Palate Communications. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are entirely my own

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