2014 Elian Da Ros, Abouriou, Cotes du Marmandais, Southwest France.
Elian Da Ros is almost single handedly re-creating this remote region, south of Bordeaux, into a must have hot spot for interesting terroir wines, especially good is this fresh and intriguing red made from the native Abouriou grape. The 2014 Elian Da Ros Abouriou Cotes du Marmandais is somewhat Gamay like, but deeper in garnet color, Tim Gaiser MS, in fact, told me he found it close to Lagrein (A dark Syrah like varietal found in Italy’s Alto Adige region) in some ways, it shows dark berry, plum, red currant and blueberry layers, vibrant and a touch tart/tangy with red peach, basil/herb as well as some earthy/loamy elements and good juicy acids. The Abouriou is ripe and pleasing on the palate with just enough savory tones, spice and texture to keep it interesting without being too serious or overly complex. This is a wonderful example of a country wine that is pure, well made and great with food, what’s not to love? And it is a rare native grape that speaks of place, made by a winemaker deeply and passionately moved by his sense of place, and shows through in his wines. This Abouriou and Elian Da Ros’ Cabernet Franc based reds are wines to seek out, these are perfect for the Fall season and rustic meals, I’d also recommend the lighter and fruitier Abouriou for Thanksgiving and or holiday dinners. Drink the Elian Da Ros Abouriou Cotes du Marmandais anytime, it should be enjoyed young and I found it even better with a slight chill on it, best over the next 2 to 3 years.
($23 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
