Profile
Jean-Luc Thunevin earned his nickname soon after he began producing the now-famous Château Valandraud in a garage, disregarding Bordeaux's formal conventions of classed growths and historic properties. When this relative newcomer's wines started earning higher scores - and fetching higher prices - than his neighbours, this pioneering 'garagiste' became known as "the bad boy of Bordeaux."
Since his rise to fame in Bordeaux, Jean-Luc has embarked on several side projects, partnering with like-minded grape-growers and winemakers in neighbouring regions. One such project is Thunevin Calvet, with Maury winemaker Jean-Roger Calvet. L'Amourette is a twist on most wines from Côtes du Roussillon Village, featuring Mourvèdre (aka Monastrell) as the dominant grape in the blend in place of Grenache. The name is a tribute to a type of grass that grows wild in the region's vineyards. The wine is aged entirely in concrete tanks, allowing the purity of the fruit to shine. Enjoy over the next 7-10 years at 18 C.
Smell
Vibrant, aromatic fruit dominates on the nose of this inky red, with notes of blackberry, raspberry and plum. There's a floral note reminiscent of violets, along with a good dose of spice - think fresh white pepper, anise, and cloves.
Taste
L'Amourette is full-bodied and plush, with soft tannins and beautifully fresh acidity. Flavours of blueberry jam, fresh blackberries, and black plum are joined with a hint of tobacco and a herbal minty-ness that complements the ripe fruit. The finish is long and dry, inviting another sip. Decant for an hour or so if enjoying young, or hide it in the cellar if you're patient.
Pairing
A hearty lentil and mushroom soup would highlight the earthiness in this structured red, but it has enough body to pair with braised meat dishes like a classic boeuf Bourguignon.
