Merlot – Montmija
History
Montmija is the name of the ribautois’ vineyard of Juliette and Jean Vialade the family patriarch. Visionary of his time, Jean Vialade, president of the cooperative winery in Ribaute, made it the first European cooperative winery 100% organic 35 years ago. Montmija sign today declination varietals and vintages « bio« of our company.
Geography
The vineyards are located on two different areas. The major one is the warm terroir of the Costièred de Nimes characterized by its pebble soil. The second one is the cooler climate of the high slopes of the Minervois.
Vineyard
The vines are planted on slopes, selected to be organically grown. All the vineyards are organically grown: no fertilizer or chemicals (pure copper and sulfur, vegetal insecticides), manual tilling and pruning. All the vines are Cordon de Royat trained.
The yield is limited to 50 hl per hectare.
Red grape-varieties
100% Merlot.
Wine-making and maturing
The harvest is entirely mechanical. It is completely destemmed before vatting. The thermo-regulated fermentation lasts 25-30 days. Frequent, regular pump-overs. During the whole wine making process we do our best to limit the use of chemicals : use of indegenious yeast, low values of SO2.
Tasting and food-pairing
Garnet colour with purple hues. Aromas of red fruit (blackberries, raspberries) and spices, some typical hubs notes well incorporate. Pleasant, supple palate, well structured.
Drink with cold meat, roasts, grilled meat, vegetables and cheese, or with starters.
Serving temperature: 16 – 18°C
Technical sheet
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