Laroche L Pinot Noir 2024

1. Introduction

This red wine comes from France, specifically the Languedoc region, produced under the IGP Pays d'Oc designation. The wine is a product of Laroche and its Mas la Chevalière property. Michel Laroche purchased the Mas la Chevalière vineyards in 1995, establishing the winery near Béziers after a ten-year search for a suitable Languedoc site. The winery is noted for its innovative approach to energy management. The winemaking philosophy, shared by winemaker Géraud Blanc and the team, prioritizes purity of fruit, a refined balance, and working in tune with nature.

2. Wine Description

The colour of this 100% Pinot Noir wine is described as a bright ruby red. It is noted for its fine, elegant structure and finesse. The aroma displays ripe cherry and strawberry notes. The nose can also have a sensation of black fruit and fleshy, ripe cherries with a hint of spice.

The palate is bright and juicy, combining fruit-forward flavours with supple, velvety tannins. It is light to medium-bodied, well-balanced, and expressive. Flavours include raspberry, strawberries, cherry, and cranberry notes. The finish is long and refreshing. The wine is aged for six months, primarily in stainless steel tanks (80%) on lees, with a smaller portion (20%) matured in oak barrels (half muids and 228 L). The alcohol by volume (ABV) is 12.5%. The grapes are predominantly sourced from organic vineyards of growers with whom Laroche has long-term partnerships. These grapes come from the Northern Gard at the foothills of the Cévennes. The winemaker's use of only natural products and no chemical pesticides or herbicides underscores a commitment to organic viticulture.