Black Flag Rouge 2022 Matthieu Barret | Rhône

The "Black Flag" cuvée is "La" Syrah in all its purity and expression. Produced by Matthieu Barret in the heart of the Ardèche, this cuvée, limited to just 6,000 bottles, stands out for its gourmet character and irresistible freshness. The 23-year-old vines are rooted in clay-limestone soils typical of the right bank of the Massif Central, in the communes of Villeneuve de Berg and Morestel. This terroir gives "Black Flag" silky structure and depth.

Philippe Mischler sommelier at Mundovin : Winemaking is based on natural practices: the grapes, 100% destemmed, are fermented with indigenous yeasts in small-capacity stainless steel vats. Fermentation, which lasts two weeks, combines pumping over and punching down to extract all the aromatic and textural richness of Syrah. Ageing takes place over 9 months in ovoid concrete vats and terracotta amphorae, allowing gentle micro-oxygenation to refine the tannins without artifice. A minimal addition of sulfites (2 g/l) and tangential filtration guarantee the wine's purity and integrity right through to bottling.

On the nose, "Black Flag" seduces with its explosive aromas of ripe black fruit, violet and white pepper, enhanced by a hint of spice and game.

On the palate, the attack is suave and fleshy, with a juicy, easily digestible texture. The tannins are fine and perfectly integrated, offering a fine mouthfeel. The fresh, persistent finish harmoniously balances the generous fruitiness of this wine.