L’Olivier (France) Minervois 2004
This organically made wine is a brand from producer Andrieu Freres, and a donation is made to the Tropical Forest Trust for each bottle sold. The wine features a recyclable synthetic cork, and the labels and packaging are made from recycled paper. A blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Mourvedre, it has a full, creamy nose of ripe black fruits with a touch of raisin and chocolate, and plenty of spicy richness. On the palate the fruit is quite crisp and racy, reminiscent more of raspberry and cranberry, but still that touch of spice and little briary note adds some warmth and interest, and that creaminess of flavour and texture persists. This is a well-balanced and very drinkable wine, as is a new white wine sibling, a Roussanne and Grenache Blanc blend, that will be launched in the autumn. 4.99, Booths.
