VAL D’ORBIEU was founded 40 years ago and has grown since to become one of France’s largest and savviest wine groups, specialising in keenly priced, smooth wines from across the Languedoc’s terroirs.
So seriously does Orbieu take its craft that head winemaker Olivier Dauga wears a blindfold – to heighten his senses, he says – while tasting and selecting for final blends. Sounds like a recipe for broken glasses and spilled wine to us, but you have to admire his devotion!
Included in the range is La Cuvée Mythique, which was the Midi’s first wine to receive 90 points from heavyweight critic Robert Parker, a swanky Corbières, and Orbieu’s fruity everyday white and red. All in all, a terrific, must-try collection!
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Mythique Languedoc Blanc €11.59 on promo
Rich and full bodied, with a fat, mellow texture and big-hearted flavours of honeyed pear, hawthorn blossom and toasted hazelnut. Soft, gentle acidity, hints of sweet spice and a distinct southern accent add to the charm of this delicious white. Would go well with lobster and mango salad with a beurre noisette.
Mythique Languedoc Rouge €11.59 on promo
Complex, spicy nose of baked black fruit and star anise. The palate is quite full bodied but with easygoing tannins and interesting, well-melded flavours of mulberry, fruitcake and farmyard. Long and rich. Enjoy with a good cheese plate or alongside a bean and sausage hotpot.
La Cuvée Mythique €14.39 on promo
Astonishing red with a shimmering ruby colour and sweet-fruited aromas of black cherry preserve and vanilla pod. The luscious palate is indulgence itself, with showy, pleasure-giving flavours of blackberry, liquorice and melted dark chocolate. Stunning! Beautiful on its own or with Mongolian beef or sticky barbecue spare ribs.
Château de Jonquieres ‘Cuvee Eole’ Corbières €16.80 on promo
Full-throttle style, with sweet-fruited berry aromas spiced up with oak-derived notes of chocolate and pine. The unctuous wash is loaded with mouthcoating flavours of blackcurrant jam, mocha and melted liquorice, supported by fine tannins and bright acidity. Luxurious stuff! Allow to breathe and sip on its own, with hard cheese or alongside a fine fillet steak in a balsamic reduction.
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