Terra Vitis (France) Corberes 2001
Surprise, surprise, on twirling this wine round to read the back label I discover it is yet another product of Europe’s hottest current co-operative, the producers of Mont Tauch in the South of France. Their seemingly infallible state of the art winery makes wines under a variety of labels. This one comes from vineyards which follow the practise of ‘Lutte Raisonee’, a form or agriculture which respects the environment. It is a blend of the Mediterrannean grapes, Carignan, Syrah and Grenache. The nose is creamy, warm and gently spicy, with copious berries and a little hint of old roses. On the palate there’s a raft of broad, soft, drying tannin that supports beautifully sweet, ripe cherry and berry fruit. Balanced and long, this is a lovely little red with savoury, food-friendly appeal. Majestic, 4.99.