Jean-Claude Mas – Vinus Malbec

Winery
Legend has it that Vinus the heron, emblem of Domaines Paul Mas, preferred the
grapes grown on the clay-limestone slopes of the Hérault valley to the dowels of the
river. Today, Vinus symbolizes what the slopes of this valley have the best to offer. The
wines come from low-yielding vines that produce grapes that are concentrated in
aroma and color, which in turn will create to authentic wines, where the typicity of the
grape is exacerbated by the oenologist’s talent. Each grape variety is produced on the
most suitable lands: Shiraz on shale, Chardonnay on Grès, Cabernet Sauvignon on
Soubergues, Clairette on Villafranchiennes terraces … Our reserve wines and our
appellation wines are aged in oak barrels which brings elegance and complexity.
Appellation
IGP Pays d’Oc
Grape varieties
90% Malbec 10% Cabernet Franc
Vineyard profile
The vines of 20 to 26 years old, are planted limestone and chalk for the Cabernet
Franc. Limestone and gravel for the Malbec. The vineyards are managed with total
respect to the environment.
Wine characteristics
Alcohol: 14.2%
Residual sugar : 2.5 g/l
Total acidity : 3.3 g/l
pH: 3.7
Vinification process
Destemming. Each grape variety is vinified separately. The Malbec ferments for 10
days in temperature-controlled vats at 28°C maximum (11 days for the Cabernet
Franc). The final blend is done in November; 30% of the blend is aged in new oak
barrels for 4 months.
Tasting notes
Deep purple color. The nose is powerful and complex aromas of ripe plum,
blackcurrant and mocha combined with spicy notes. Medium to full-bodied wine, this
Malbec reveals ripe tannins supported by a good fruit concentration and layers of
sweet spices (vanilla).
Food pairing
Best served at 17°C with lamb, stews and strong cheeses.