We’ve had several wines in for review from Bila-Haut over the past few years. This property is owned by Michel Chapoutier, and is now part of his extensive portfolio. Think more of a southern Rhone style of wine, but with an edge. The wine we’ll review today is a higher end offering from the Bila-Haut property. Let’s take a look.
Wine: 2016 Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem Rouge
Winery Location: Côtes-du-Roussillon, Southern France
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: November, 2018
Tasting Notes: dark red in color, with a big nose of black plum and dark fruits, along with savory elements, spice and brush. On the palate the wine is full bodied and rich. At first the tannins are quite brisk. With some time to open up the wine integrates nicely, and the tannins soften, the palate remains complex and bright acid gives it all balance. A long finish wraps it up. I would suggest decanting for an hour right now. This is juicy and delicious. A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan.
Price Point – SRP of $30
Would We Buy It? – Yes – when you want a rich wine with some spice, some character and an edge this is a good choice. A bit better with decanting, but excellent either way.
Maison M. Chapoutier is doing some great things in the Roussillon.
A votre santé!
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