# Domaine Lalande Réserve Merlot (2022)

- **Producer:** Domaine Lalande
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €7
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** plum, blackcurrant, red cherry, black cherry, dried herbs, chocolate, vanilla

## About this wine

Domaine Lalande Réserve Merlot is a 100% Merlot from the IGP Pays d'Oc in Languedoc-Roussillon, Southern France. The estate, with a history dating back to 1684, was acquired in 1996 and is committed to producing accessible, high-quality wines. The vineyard is situated near Carcassonne on calcareous soils, with vines over 20 years old. The winery's approach focuses on delivering value and a charming wine character that bridges different wine styles.

## Interesting facts

- Estate history dates back to 1684.
- Vines are over 20 years old.
- Harvest occurs at night to preserve freshness.
- Aims for high quality at consumer-friendly prices.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and balanced tannins complement the protein in richer meat dishes, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to savory sauces. The wine's moderate acidity helps to cut through fattier components, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

The Domaine Lalande Réserve Merlot is made from 100% Merlot grapes. A key technique employed is night harvesting, which helps to preserve fruit character and acidity. The wine likely undergoes fermentation in controlled conditions to maintain fruit purity. Some aging in French oak barrels is suggested by flavor notes, contributing to its structure. The estate's philosophy emphasizes producing quality wines at accessible price points.