Like every year, Pierre Cros has presented the new vintage of his Minervois wines this spring. Here’s a small selection of wines for summer and for cellaring:

Cuvée Tradition 2012, red Minervois

This wine made principally from Carignan and Grenache grapes is a real delicacy! An appetizing smell of ripe fruit and herbs, smooth, medium-bodied and juicy in the mouth, this wine is the perfect choice for everyday’s taste pleasure: BBQ, roasted duck or chicken, cheese and bread… You name it! Its “big brother” from 2011 is in top form, showing more tannins and structure on the palate.

Les Mal Aimés 2012, red Vin de Table

Being my favourite amongst Pierre’s wines for years, it also keeps its promises in 2012. A delicious blend of old, traditional grape varieties, Aramon, Alicante, Picpoul noir and Carignan, shows surprising odours of elder berries and plums, together with the freshness of Mediterranean herbs. Suave and straight in the mouth, with a hint of tannins that confer depths and structure to the wine.

Nebbiolo 2012, red Vin de Table

The colour of this wine is as clear and elegant as ever. An intense bouquet rises out of the glass, a skilful melange of sour cherry, forest floor and cinnamon. A velvety mouth feel, straight and clear acidity, delicate finish. Secret and charming…

Les Aspres 2011, red Minervois

Pure Syrah, grown in the rocky soils of “Les Aspres”. More splendid and intense than ever! An almost perfect harmony between power and finesse: Red and dark fruit, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and fresh humus. Full-bodied and fresh, with dense and silky tannins, this wonderful liquid contains weeks of Mediterranean sunshine. Keep them carefully in you cellar for the next 10 years, at least…