Limoux is more famous for its sparkling Cremants, but the quality of still wines is increasing. Made by Jean-Claude Mas under Domaines Paul Mas. Oak ferment with 60% going through malolactic fermentation for richer, deeper flavour. 9 Months further maturation in oak (33% new, the rest 2 years old). Bottled under screwcap. Available here in Australia via Dan Murphy’s.
Château Martinolles, Chardonnay, Limoux, 2022
Medium straw. Oak influence comes across raw with shavings, brioche, bread crust nougat, popcorn kernels with fruitier elements of lime pie, pineapple and grapefruit skin. There’s some underlying earthiness of wet sand and chalk. Richness on the palate with breadth and depth. Oak and MLF smooth all the edges and leave a wine of bittersweet width and a savoury, dry finish (if a little short). One for those enjoy the bigness the artifice provides.
RRP: $23
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 91/100
Wine sample courtesy of Palate PR and Pinnacle Drinks
