Magnum Nuit Grave 2017 Mas des Chimères | Languedoc

Mas des Chimères ' Nuit Grave is one of the wine estate's most accomplished cuvées, a deep reflection of the tormented landscapes of the Terrasses du Larzac. On the red and black soils of this remote corner of the Languedoc, Guilhem Dardé raises his wines with rare rigor. Nuit Grave is a rigorous selection of the oldest Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache vines, planted on ruff and basalt soils, where volcanic rock regulates the excesses of the Mediterranean climate. Winemaking is based on de-stemmed bunches, with long maceration in concrete vats, followed by 12 months ageing in old barrels, without new wood, to preserve the integrity of the fruit and the minerality of the terroir.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Nuit Grave embodies the most structured side of Languedoc reds, without denying the elegance typical of Terrasses du Larzac. The blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Grenache gives a subtle yet powerful expression of the Mas des Chimères personality. It impresses with its density, its grain of tannin, and that impression of shadow and freshness found only in great, well-born southern reds. There's substance, but also a remarkable balance for this region.

On the nose, the dark color reveals clean black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, against a mineral background characteristic of Terrasses du Larzac. A hint of blood orange brings a lively freshness, while an earthy, structured, mineral background adds aromatic complexity. The bouquet is distinguished by its balance between fruity intensity and mineral elegance.

On the palate, the attack is balanced, with silky, structuring tannins. Red and black fruits are crisp, supported by a tactile sensation of freshness. A mineral nuance appears in the mid-palate to reinforce its depth. The finish is clean, persistent and reminiscent of zesty orange and bitter cocoa, with a balancing length.