2016 Château FONTARÈCHE. Corbières, Southern France (Magnum)

The Corbières is a spectacular, rugged range of hills in between Narbonne and Perpignan in the deep south of France. The wines, at best, have the generosity of a sun-drenched climate combined with the spice and individuality forged by both the infertile ‘terroir’ and the dominance of small, owner-operated estates

35% Mourvèdre, 35% Syrah, 15% Grenache, 15% Carignan, aged in tank (no wood at all) for 14 months

Château de Fontarèche is situated just north of Lezignan-Corbières, 200 hectares owned by the same family since 1682

A cocktail of southern grape varieties (including Mourvèdre and Syrah) producing a relatively easy-drinking Corbières – hints of herb and garrigue, but in a gentle, open, supple frame