Plaimont “La Table Du Malin” Madiran. From under the gaze of the Pyrenees. And, they say, "heart friendly"

Plaimont “La Table Du Malin” Madiran (AC) 2017, 13.5% ABV

Gift from France

 From under the gaze of the Pyrenees.

A Basque vineyard, near Saint Etienne de Baïgorry

Our 2017 Madiran, made from the Tannat grape, has one of the darkest red colours you will likely see in a glass (or on your clean white top!). Aromas are quite intense, ripe and fruity (mostly plum, and blackberry too). And so it continues on the palate, round, fruity, and rich. Enjoy it at 16 degrees with grilled meats, roast poultry and cheese.

The stern reputation (based on wines of the previous century) of Tannat, a highly tannic grape from the southwest of France, can still put punters off. “The man’s grape” you hear. Maybe so. But add in 10% Cab Sauv and 10% Cab Franc, as they often do, and you end up with something like this gem. That “man’s grape” thing is passé. A highlight of a 2012 visit to Irouligy was a rosé, which had no less than 80% Tannat! 

Research has also shown that the grape “has record levels of procyanidins, the heart-friendly chemical in red wine”. Grapes and Wines also say that Tannat reds have been and are being improved by modern wine-making methods (which include a tannin-softening technique). So not as tough as they were in the old days!

Tannat (nowadays the signature red grape of Uruguay) has also gained popularity in the wider wine world due to its perceived health benefits. The Tannat grape contains high levels of antioxidants, particularly procyanidin, which has been shown to have several health benefits, including lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease and improving cognitive function. As regards those often publicised health benefits, you’re advised to check!

Synonymous with the Tannat grape, Madiran is home to robust, red wines made in the shadow of the Pyrenees. Madiran is a village in the gently rolling countryside in the far southwest of France. The area is famous for its indulgent gastronomy and rich, concentrated red wines.

When Robert Joseph wrote French Wines in 1999, his short list of top Madiran producers included Plaimont (who now have over 40 years behind them). His pairing tip was Roast Pigeon in Armagnac and red wine! That reminds me—I have a pair of plump pigeons regularly waddling around the garden.

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