BellaVino

Domaine: Domaine de Gournier
Vintage: 2009
Producer: Maurice Barnouin
Variety: 100% Merlot
Country: France
Region: Costières de Nîmes

Domaine de Gournier is located in Provence, above the Mediterranean, between Avignon and Nîmes, near the town of Uzes and the famous Pont du Gard. The vineyards, planted along low limestone hills studded with calcareous rock and sparse clumps of wind-beaten vegetation, benefit from the southern exposition to the provençal sun. Domaine de Gournier is owned by Maurice Barnouin. Barnouin is a pepinierist, a vine clone and rootstock expert. His father was a pioneer in the region’s re-planting with low yielding, intensely flavored varietals. The Merlot clone planted here is sourced from vineyards on the right bank of Bordeaux. The grapes are hand-harvested and vinified in stainless steel tanks in order to focus on the fresh fruit. This Merlot exhibits a saturated purple color and a spicy, blackberry nose and flavors. This beautifully made chunky little Merlot has long been recognized as a great value.