I just tried a wine that often gets overlooked. Minervois is a section in the Languedoc region of France. Languedoc is the next door neighbor of southern Rhone's most famous region, Chateauneuf du Pape, and is primarily made up of the Carignan grape. Producer Oustal Blanc takes a less common approach with their wines than what is traditionally found in this region, by blending Grenache, Syrah, and a little bit of Carignan. This offers the unique palate and style that the producer truly believes in. Oustal Blanc, while having the terroir in Chateauneuf, focuses more on the likes of Burgundy to produce their wines.
Burgundian style shines through with a medium body on the palate that packs a punch on the nose. Anise and tart berries shine through instantly with the slightest hints of rosemary poking through. The plum color offers a unique glare in the glass and a flavor of prime meat hits the middle of your tongue. This wine is in its prime and should be enjoyed with a nice rack of lamb or a piece of veal.
30 minutes in to the bottle and WOW! It keeps going on and on. 93 points (RPWA) and a true winner for under $25!