Chat with Vinny
For Élan-Bise, winemaker Mark Hoddy looks for the very best grapes of the vintage. In 2020, it was a dense, rich blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan, all from premium Languedoc sites. Long ageing in barrel layers the dark fruit with complexity.
For Élan-Bise, winemaker Mark Hoddy looks for the very best grapes of the vintage. In 2020, it was a dense, rich blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan, all from premium Languedoc sites. Long ageing in barrel layers the dark fruit with complexity.
Tasting notes
Velvety black fruit, black pepper, coffee bean, wild herbs, oak spice
Aroma
Lifted herbal and liquorice scents, cherry, red fruit, hedgerow, spice
Tasting the sumptuous Élan-Bise, you’d think it was top-flight Rhône. First vintage, it was pure Syrah, but in 2018 and 2020 Mark discovered parcels of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan that really shone. Mark has an enviable network of grower contacts in the Languedoc. He keeps a watchful eye throughout the season and knows exactly where the best grapes are to be found. At the Béziers cellar, where he works his magic, he gave the wine a long, slow fermentation, then racked it into French oak barrels for 18 months to lend layers of spicy oak complexity. His aim each vintage is to make the finest Languedoc red. We think he's succeeded hands down with this Gold-medal winner. Open early and decant. Perfect with roast meats or a rich casserole.