Orbiel & Frères Pays d'Oc Merlot 2023

In the west of the sun-drenched Minervois, northeast of Carcassonne, the garrigue landscape alternates with vineyards that stretch along the banks of the Orbiel river. With its diverse soil types, Mediterranean climate and vineyards at higher altitudes, Hugh Ryman found the ideal terroir for his series of Languedoc wines named after the river.

Hugh obtains the Merlot grapes from strictly selected plots at a higher altitude. The altitude ensures sufficient coolness in the vineyards, which is important for maintaining sufficient fresh acidity. Yields are deliberately kept low in order to harvest grapes with more flavor concentration.

Once in the cellar, Hugh ferments the grapes at a low temperature, so that the wine retains its fruitiness. After fermentation, he leaves the peels in the juice for an extra long time to ensure a nice deep color and some extra structure.

Thanks to this structure, the Orbiel Merlot is very tasty at the table, for example with a French classic such as confit de canard. It is also not to be missed as a drink wine with a platter of charcuterie.