Olivier Coste Carignan Noir 'Je t'aime' 2022

Carignan was once one of the workhorse grapes of South West France but all has changed and now old Carignan vineyards produce some of the stars of the Languedoc, of which Oliver Coste's 'Je t'aime' is one. From a vineyard of 60 year old, organically farmed, low-yielding vines in the Minervois appellation, hand-harvested in the cool of the night to preserve freshness and matured in concrete to retain the purity of the fruit. In the glass intense aromas of ripe dark fruits with touches of spice lead onto a full and smooth palate with a cool freshness to the dark fruit flavours, spice and garrigue-y notes.

Works really well with spicy and flavourful meat dishes such as curry or North African-style lamb, as well as simple roasted or grilled red meat and vegetables.

Olivier Coste comes from a long line of winemakers. His family owns and runs the well-known Domaine de Montrose near Pézenas in the Languedoc. With his own label, Olivier enjoys pushing boundaries and trying new techniques. His 'Languedoc Stars' range focuses on traditional regional grape varieties, grown in a way that produces low yields and concentrated, aromatic fruit. They also make a point of being carbon neutral and follow sustainable and organic practices in their vineyards. It's a nice balance of respecting tradition while looking ahead to the future.