Domaine Magellan Côtes de Thongue Le Fruit Defendu - selection massale

(This wine was presented in blind tasting tonight) Ruby red, fades near edges. Black cherry, red fruit, very pure fruit, little oak influence. Medium weight, medium alcohol. Silky, integrated tannins. Medium-plus acid. Old world, cool climate, based on weight and high acid. Too heavy for Pinot, not enough weight/oak for Cabernet. Not dense enough for Syrah. Possible grenache blend, based on red fruit flavors and traditional wine making style. (ok, so the "grenache blend" may have been a little off, …

Earthy wine yet light body and fruit flavor. finishes lightly and quietly. Was very surprised by this wine. sort of a blend between a Pinot and Beaujolais as to body and fines.

Had another bottle tonight - popped and poured, suits the wine better I think. Everyone enjoyed this very much, especially when I related the story about the hidden patch of 60 year old cinsault vines, the 10% syrah, and the vintage being 2009. Great value - added an extra 2 points to my score in original tasting notes. Very smooth, drinkable, approachable, super fine tannins, just a touch of lime for acid.

Shared a bottle with friends last night. A very drinkable wine, no faults. Very nice. Did not decant, as felt this would be better to drink quickly before it sat out too long. To the eye, a bright, dark translucent purple color, which moved a little towards garnet as the night progressed, however still retaining a purple hue. On the nose, very delicate floral essence, and red berries, like raspberry, and a little cotton candy. The nose was a little …