Oenologist Claude Gros elected to bet heavily on Mourvedre for the Baptiste-Boutes 2009 Minervois, which additionally includes around 25% each Grenache and Carignan. That there is but 10% Syrah doesn't surprise once you learn that this grape reached 17% alcohol here in 2009! There is a strongly carnal, beef stock-like character here allied to juicy, ripe blackberry and pungent brown spices. Full, yet bright, this leaves an invigoratingly lasting trail. It should remain tasty for at least the next 4-5 years. The latest Baptiste-Boutes releases depart radically considerably in blend and vinification from the 2007 about which I wrote in issue 183.Imported by Jeffrey Davies Signature Selections, Bordeaux; tel. 011 33 556 081 954

The Baptiste-Boutes 2008 Minervois is one-quarter each of Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignan, and Grenache matured entirely in tank (the 2007 and 2009 saw some demi-muids) and vinified with extended micro-oxygenation. This can only be deemed a qualified success, with its predecessor, strong elements of chard and spinach mingling with tart, fresh black fruits, and finishing with verve but at the same time an almost oxalic tartness. I would drink it within the next couple of years.The latest Baptiste-Boutes releases depart radically considerably in blend and vinification from the 2007 about which I wrote in issue 183.Imported by Jeffrey Davies Signature Selections, Bordeaux; tel. 011 33 556 081 954

From Claude Gros and the team that produces the wines of La Negly, the Baptiste-Boutes 2007 Minervois is a 50-50 blend of Syrah and Grenache, matured in tank and some demi-muids, in either of which it spent a full year on its lees. A vivid aroma of black currant, licorice, and mint leads to a polished, bright, sappy palate, tinged with faint bitterness of toasted pecan, resinous herbs, and tart fruit skin. Intensely ripe but free of any superficial sense of sweetness; not terribly complex, but irresistibly delicious, this excellent value will satisfy anytime over the next 2-3 years. Imported by Jeffrey Davies Signature Selections, Bordeaux; tel. 011 33 556 081 954

The Baptiste-Boutes 2005 Minervois – a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre from the team that produce the wines of La Negly – was already described in more detail in issue 173. But as it is still on the market, it is worth once again tasting and again commending its juicy, fresh, herb- and pepper-tinged black fruits and its depth of flavor, softness of texture, and sheer lip-smacking finish. Enjoy this excellent value over the next year or two.Importer: Jeffrey Davies Signature Selections, Highland Park, IL; tel. (847) 403-7215