2020 Ollier Taillefer - Faugeres Grand Reserve (750ml)
2020 Ollier Taillefer - Faugeres Grand Reserve (750ml)
From a family-run, organically certified estate in the northeast of the Faugeres appellation, this 2020 Grand Réserve delivers the essence of Languedoc terroir. Domaine Ollier-Taillefer covers 36 hectares of vines, and under the guidance of the Ollier family—including fifth-generation vignerons and now Florent—this wine embodies a traditional Faugeres profile with a modern sense of balance and clarity.
Terroir and vinification
A nuanced blend of old-vine Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, vinified with a classic four-week maceration and aged entirely in tank. The schist-rich soils of Faugeres lend a defined mineral backbone—think lightly smoky, sometimes toasted notes—that complements ripe fruit and a refreshing lift. Organic viticulture emphasizes the vineyard’s natural integrity, letting terroir lead the wine’s character rather than oak.
Key details that stand out
- Grape blend: Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre (old-vine fruit)\n- Winemaking: tradition-driven maceration; aged in stainless tank to preserve freshness and structure\n- Terroir: schist soils delivering minerality and depth\n- Certification: organically grown grapes\n- Recognition: Bronze medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards; noted for balance and length
Tasting profile
- Appearance and aroma: Sweet, ripe, chocolatey plum aromas with nuanced notes of roasted coffee and tobacco; a complexity that hints at its maturity and terroir.
- Palate: Meaty, with a savory generosity and crisp freshness that keeps the wine lively from start to finish.
- Structure: Medium- to full-bodied with fine, firm tannins and a peppery, dense yet agile texture.
- Length: Very persistent finish, reflecting both depth and a clean finish that lingers with mineral-driven clarity.
- Additional notes: On the nose and palate, currants, cured meat, cloves, and a touch of undergrowth emerge, adding dimension beyond the fruit profile.
Food pairing suggestions
- Roasted lamb with herbs, or grilled lamb chops with a peppercorn crust
- Beef stews, cassoulet, or braised venison for a hearty pairing
- Aged cheeses (such as Manchego or Gouda) and charcuterie that echo the wine’s savory notes
- Rustic mushroom dishes or herb-roasted root vegetables to echo the wine’s mineral backbone
In short, this Faugeres Grand Réserve is a thoughtfully crafted expression of the region—mineral, fruit-forward, and food-friendly—with a traditional backbone that shines through its tank-aging approach and organic origins. A compelling choice for lovers of structured yet approachable red wines from the Languedoc.