Elian Da Ros Cotes du Marmandais 2009

The Cotes du Marmandais from Elian da Ros is made up of 50% merlot, 30% cabernet franc and 20% abouriou. And while the label is playful suggesting le vin est un fete (wine is a party) to finally declaring ce vin est un fete (this wine is a party) it is a rather serious drink. The wine offers great structure and length. It has been described by a few as Cru Beaujolais meets Piedmontese Barbera, and what that seems to really mean is that we're all surprised by this mid-weight wine with dense fruit. 

The nose is full of fresh ripe strawberries and blueberries. The mouth is round, rich Merlot and warm southern French chew, spice and herbs. The Cab Franc makes the final approach and brings lots and lots of texture and a touch of tannin that make their way into a nice formidable finish. It's still got great acidity and only a mid-weight. Perfect for oh, fall. It's like wearing a sweater and flip-flops.

Cotes du Marmandais   $19 a bottle

meet the winemaker

Elian da Ros
Often called confident or sometimes thought to be a bit of a risk taker for making wine in The Marmandais, Elian is merely a man heeding his passion. The following is from an interview with Elian early this summer which gives you a snapshot into his thinking and perhaps, his winemaking:

I do not work with an oenologist, I vinify all my wines by myself. The days before harvest I go in the vineyard and taste the grapes, sometimes I go 2-3 times a day, little by little images, sensations are popping up and the big lines of the vintage become clearer and clearer in my mind. The day of harvest I try to listen to my feelings and [make] the best decisions. Also, you have to be very rigorous, and devoted to what you are doing. Harvest is once a year, you have to be 100% dedicated. It is like maneuvering a big ship, you have 30 persons working (harvest team) and you have to take decisions one after another.