2007 Chateau de Paraza minervois

[Drew]

LANGUEDOC ROUSSILLON, Minervois.
Languedoc blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Cinsaut.

I was looking for a Rhonish, daily drinker for little money, light in alcohol but with enough stuffing to pair with food and taste pretty good.


This is what RB said about this wine.
90 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"I have never visited Chateau de Paraza (a prominent landmark in the eponymous, tiny, canal-side village at the eastern extreme of its appellation) and it had been several years since I tasted one of their wines, but their 2007 Minervois Cuvee Speciale demonstrates that this well-known estate can still turn out a head-turning value. Very ripe blackberry fruit sweetly caresses the palate, with cinnamon, cardamom, juniper, black pepper, and cherry pit bitterness adding interest. For all of its richness (in itself amazing for the price) this finishes with lip-smacking juiciness and an invigorating impression akin to chomping down on the seeds of the blackberries. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years." ~(WA)

This is what Drew sez about the wine:
Dark black/purple garnet in the glass, not quite opaque. There's a freshness on the nose that pulls you in. Crushed dark and red berries mixed with salt air. Earthy laced black and red fruit with a smidge of mushroom, black pepper and mineral and, yes, I did get the "invigorating impression akin to chomping down on the seeds of the blackberries". It's medium bodied with a persistant finish that will pair with a lot of foods and cheeses. This is not a blockbuster and don't think it's going to knock you down with layers of flavor and complexity. It's nicely made and balanced and I paid $8 by the case....Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy. 13% Alc/vol.

Drew

[hotwine]

Your note wins the vote. Thankee kindly.

[wondersofwine]

Another vote for Drew's note.