Baron de Badassière
Baron de Badassière is from the Picpoul de Pinet region of the Languedoc,...
near the coast of the south of France. The name of the wine refers to the Badassière vineyard which lies near the small town of Pomerols. In the 18th century, the vineyard belonged to Baron Charles Emmanuel, a colourful character who was rumoured to be the illegitimate son of King Louis XV. The wines are made exclusively for Liberty by New Zealand winemaker Graeme Paul, with consultant Matt Thomson, at the Cave de Pomerols cooperative where the Vignes de L'Eglise range is also produced. This region benefits from a sunny, warm climate which encourages ripe, fruity flavours in the wines, while the coastal breezes help retain freshness and aromatics.
Vineyards
The Carignan grapes for this wine were grown in vineyards around Badassière in the Languedoc in the South of France. This region benefits from a sunny, warm climate which encourages ripe flavours in the wines, while the coastal breezes help retain freshness and aromatics. The grapes were part machine harvested and part hand harvested at night.
Vintage Information
2016 was a late ripening vintage, marked by significant drought; a lack of rain in both winter and summer was confounded by severe evaporation caused by hot, windy conditions with practically no precipitation from mid-June onwards. The few days of rain in September relieved the vines of severe water stress, which was essential to maintain high quality, healthy fruit.
Vinification
The grapes were macerated on their skins for a few hours, then pressed in the pneumatic press. The must was cold settled and then fermented at a controlled temperature of 20°C for nine days. The wine was unoaked but aged for nearly eight months in tank to ensure the tannins and flavours were well integrated.
Tasting Notes
Bright red in colour with deep purple hints. The nose is aromatic and lifted, with cassis, plum and herbs giving way to spice and a touch of game. The palate is medium to full with attractive berry fruit intensity, fresh acidity and firm but smooth tannins.
Vintage Information
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Grape varieties | 100% Carignano/Carignan |
| Region | Eastern Languedoc, Languedoc |
| Winemaker | Graeme Paul, Matt Thomson, Joel Jullien |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 13% |
Trade customers
Liberty Wines customers can order this wine directly from us.