2001 Bergerie de l'Hortus Coteaux de Languedoc-Pic St. Loup "Classique"

[joeyz6]

Ruby red, clear. Smells "green" at first, like the Rimbert; notes of root vegetables and bell peppers, along with earth, mineral and vanilla scents. Balanced fruit across the tongue. Juicy tannins coat the mouth. Long finish that seems to increase for the first 15 seconds or so; still, it's somewhat closed on the finish and showing aging potential. Overall a powerful wine with a lot of complexity.
Just as good on the second day. The vanilla scent had increased and I picked up some chocolate notes on the tongue.
13.5%, 10.50 euros.

For those who aren't familiar with this wine or this commune, de l'Hortus is the benchmark producer of the Languedoc commune called Pic St. Loup, which is one of the most reputed appellations of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The salesman in Montpellier told me that de l'Hortus was the leader of the rise of Pic St. Loup and is still the best (but not the best value) wine to be found there.

They also have a "Grande Cuvée" that goes for around 18 euros. Hopefully I'll get a chance to try that out before I take off.

[wondersofwine]

I've had one Pic St.-Loup wine by the glass at a restaurant. I don't recall the full name but think I would recognize it if I saw it in print. It was a pleasant surprise and I intend to try other Languedoc wines for some enjoyable wines at reasonable prices.