Château Laougué 1994

The monumental reds of Madiran can take decades to hit their peak - but are worth the wait! This one offers waves of luscious, spicy black fruit and breathtaking complexity. Enjoy now or keep.

The Madiran region is in the southwest of France and standing in the vineyards you can plainly see the Pyrenees rising majestically on the horizon. The dominant grape variety here is Tannat - rich in tannin just as the name suggests. But is it also rich in fruit and over time, the wines of Madiran evolve into splendid classics. The fact that they are not better known is more a reflection of the modern desire for instant gratification than a reflection on the quality of the wine.

But, if its instant gratification you're after, you're in luck!

This wine has had thirteen years to mellow and evolve and is now, at last, ready to be enjoyed. Concentrated notes of ripened berry fruits (blackberry, redcurrant, blueberry) with subtle hints of liquorice and peony, plums and sweet, fresh earthiness shine through. A very fine, firm yet elegant wine, best served with steak and kidney pie, roast lamb or hearty casseroles.