{"product_id":"metairie-pays-les-barriques-merlot-2023","title":"Métairie, Pays Les Barriques Merlot 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eMétairie Pays Les Barriques Merlot 2023 is a full-bodied red from southern France, made from Merlot grown across diverse vineyards between Narbonne and Limoux. Its combination of ripe red-fruit character, robust structure and French-oak maturation gives it both generosity and balance, making it an appealing choice for hearty meals or relaxed evening drinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeep ruby in appearance, the wine opens with intense aromas of small red berries accompanied by a subtle note of vanilla from its time in French oak. On the palate, it is full-bodied and robust, with concentrated fruit, smooth texture and well-integrated oak, while the varied terroirs contribute additional nuance and floral hints. The 2023 vintage is enjoyable in its youth, and its structure should allow it to develop gracefully over the next few years if stored in a cool, dark place.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes come from several parcels situated between Narbonne and Limoux, on the route towards the Pyrenees. The vineyards reflect a mix of Mediterranean and higher-altitude influences: warmer sites provide generosity and depth, while parcels exposed to Atlantic winds contribute intensity, elegance and finesse. Harvesting details are not specified, but the individual parcels are handled to preserve their distinct character. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, with one-third of the wood being new, adding gentle vanilla and spice while preserving the Merlot’s fruit profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eServe lightly cool at around 16–18°C. This Merlot pairs well with roast beef, grilled lamb, sausages, burgers, mushroom dishes and moderately mature cheeses. It can be enjoyed directly after opening, although a short decant of 20–30 minutes may help soften its structure and bring its fruit and oak aromas into better focus.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMétairie produces wines from vineyards in the varied landscape between Narbonne and Limoux, where Mediterranean warmth meets the fresher influence of higher elevations and Atlantic winds. By blending fruit from parcels with different microclimates and terroirs, the producer aims to create wines with a broad range of aromas, floral nuances and balanced structure. Further details about the winery’s history and specific achievements are not provided.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Métairie","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54470218711377,"sku":"VDZ-10570088808784-53331274727760","price":12.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/meta16015_1.png?v=1785610408","url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/products\/metairie-pays-les-barriques-merlot-2023","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}