# Pinot Noir Méditerranée (2023)

- **Producer:** François Labet
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Corsica, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, raspberry, cherry, redcurrant, cloves, vanilla

## About this wine

François Labet, the esteemed winemaker behind Burgundy's iconic Château de la Tour in Clos de Vougeot, brings his Pinot Noir expertise to the unique terroir of Corsica. Sourced from high-altitude vineyards on the island, this wine bridges Burgundian elegance with Mediterranean warmth. The high elevation provides the necessary diurnal temperature shifts to preserve Pinot Noir's delicate acidity and fresh red fruit character, offering an approachable, sun-kissed expression of the grape.

## Interesting facts

- Crafted by François Labet, the famous winemaker and proprietor of Château de la Tour, the largest owner of Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru.
- Though labeled under the broad 'Méditerranée' IGP, the grapes are sourced from high-altitude vineyards on the island of Corsica.
- The high elevation of the vineyards (up to 400 meters) is crucial for keeping the Pinot Noir grapes cool in the Mediterranean climate.

## Food pairing

This light-to-medium-bodied Pinot Noir thrives on its bright acidity and low tannins. It pairs beautifully with fatty fish like salmon, earthy mushroom dishes, and roasted poultry. The wine's red fruit notes complement sweet-and-savory elements like cherry or berry reductions, while its refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of charcuterie and light cheeses.

## Wine making process

The grapes are harvested from high-altitude vineyards in Corsica to maintain freshness. Vinification follows traditional Burgundian techniques adapted for the warmer climate. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant primary fruit aromas. The wine is aged primarily in stainless steel and concrete vats, with a small portion seeing neutral oak to add subtle texture without overpowering the delicate Pinot Noir fruit.