Les Illustres
Type of wine
Red wine
Body
Full-bodied
Ageing in barrel
12 months
Alcohol content
14.5%
Grape Variety
Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec
Aroma
Black plum aromas, cardamom, tobacco, aromatic herbs
Ideal with
Grilled meat, lightly sauced meat, pan-fried meat, smoked meat, hard cheese
Origin
Foncalieu
Foncalieu Les Illustres is a fine red wine offered at an affordable price, produced in the Coteaux d'Ensérune region of Southern France. This wine is a harmonious blend of three grape varieties: Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec, delivering a bold, full-bodied flavor and a long finish.
Flavor and Structure
Crafted from a blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Malbec, Foncalieu Les Illustres presents a complex and balanced flavor profile:
- Syrah: As the dominant grape, it contributes aromas of black berries, black pepper, and pronounced tannins.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: This varietal helps to create a firm tannin structure, complex flavors, and aging potential.
- Malbec: It adds notes of black fruit, spice, and a deep color to the blend.
The overall flavor profile is expressed through:
- Color: A ruby red with deep purple hues, reflecting its complexity and aging potential.
- Aroma: Aromas of ripe fruits, cardamom, tobacco, and fragrant herbs.
- Palate: The wine is full-bodied with soft tannins and a gentle, refreshing acidity. It boasts a long and intense finish.
- Alcohol Content: 14.5% - An ideal alcohol level that lends strength to the wine.
Enjoying Foncalieu Les Illustres
- Serving Temperature: To fully appreciate its flavors, it is recommended to chill the wine to 16-18°C (approximately 61-64°F). This can be achieved by placing the bottle in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or in an ice bucket for around 15 minutes before serving.
- Wine Glass: A Bordeaux red wine glass is recommended to allow the wine to come into contact with the air, helping its aromas to develop.
- Decanter: Decanting the wine for approximately 30-60 minutes before serving will help soften the tannins, allowing the flavors to become more rounded and pleasant.
Food Pairing Suggestions
This wine pairs well with:
- Red Meats: Beef steak, roasted lamb, venison.
- Stews: Beef bourguignon, lamb stew with vegetables.
- Cheeses: Brie, Camembert, Cheddar.
- Charcuterie: Ham, sausages, pâté.
Awards
Foncalieu Les Illustres has received high praise from wine experts:
- Robert Parker: 90 points
- Wine Spectator: 89 points
- James Suckling: 91 points
Foncalieu Les Illustres is a fine red wine offered at an affordable price. With its bold, full-bodied flavor and long finish, this wine is an excellent choice for those seeking a red wine to enjoy with a meal or on a special occasion.