Madiran: the 2016 vintage

Contents

The Madiran appellation is located in south-western France and produces exclusively red wines. It’s in the heart of the Pyrenean Piedmont that a large number of endemic grape varieties flourish, making this appellation unique in the world. Spread over 1,300 hectares, the vintages born in the region go particularly well with local cuisine, rich in powerful, high-quality meats: a perfect harmony!

An appellation with strong values supported by committed winemakers

The history of Madiran dates back to several centuries BC, but its real development began in the 11th century with the arrival of Benedictine monks in the region. They were instrumental in the development of wine in the region at a time when vine cultivation was vigorous and fruitful. This beverage easily became famous as the wine of the Mass. It is also very popular with pilgrims on their way to Compostela. Then, with the development of trade thanks to the Adour river and the port of Bayonne, Madiran wines reached a new audience in northern Europe. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the Madiran wine region really took off. A new generation of winemakers decided to take the vineyards in hand and produce quality wines. The AOC was recognized in 1948, and 50 years later, the appellation is in its heyday. Now extending over 1,400 hectares, the Madiran vineyard is one of the great vineyards of France.

An environment conducive to quality wines

Located in the heart of the Pyrenean Piedmont, 60 km from the mountain range of the same name and 100 km from the Atlantic Ocean, the Madiran vineyards enjoy a climate balanced by maritime and mountain influences. In fact, both cool down vineyards that are subject to intense summer heat, to prevent berries from ripening too early. Thermal amplitude extends the vine’s vegetative cycle and postpones the harvest. The fairly high rainfall also contributes to this phenomenon. The altitude of the vineyards ranges from 180 to 300 meters, so there are numerous micro-climates, contributing to the diversity of the appellation’s terroirs. Variety is the watchword when it comes to soils too: clay-limestone, clay and rolled pebbles spread across the vineyards. Finally, four grape varieties flourish in this wine-growing region. Two of these are endemic grape varieties found exclusively in south-western France: Tannat and Fer Servadou. Both are joined in the blends by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, which also find their place.

Madiran 2016

The Madiran appellation’s 2016 vintage was penalized by major volume losses. Indeed, after a winter marked by mild temperatures, spring did not spare the vineyards with severe weather. Summer brought a turnaround, and August was nothing short of scorching. Finally, and against all odds, the 2016 vintage is a great wine that will mark the history of the appellation for its greatest enthusiasts.

Photo : Adobe Stock