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- Winemaker: Sophie and Damien Bielle
- Farming: Biodynamic
- Variety: 100% Merlot
- Terroir: sandy, alluvial, clay
- Aging: Amphora and Concrete eggs.
From our 2023 November Bottle of the Month Club:
Maison Marius Bielle Brut(es), Lalande-de-Pomerol, Bordeaux, France 2020
After the infamous film Sideways was released in 2004, Merlot endured a challenging period. The grape received a bad reputation, while Pinot Noir was elevated to a pedestal. Despite our collective love for Pinot Noir, Merlot remains a hard sell for many, even two decades later. However, there is an undeniable magic in this grape – it's velvety, floral, fruity, and elegant, offering so much richness and depth.
My own love affair with Merlot began during a visit to Bordeaux in 2014. Until then, my wine journey had mainly focused on Cabernet Sauvignon, and I had limited experience with Merlot-focused wines. My perception was shaped by Napa Merlot, often full-bodied and heavily oaked. However, on Bordeaux's Right Bank, Merlot, its ancestral home, reveals a layered and balanced profile. These wines, known for their inky color and sweetly-fruited aromas, exhibit generosity and impeccable structure.
The etymology of the word "Merlot" is debated, but the prevailing theory is that it originates from "Merlau," meaning blackbird in Occitan, a dialect spoken in southwestern France. Early observers noted that blackbirds near the River Garonne loved to feast on the early-ripening berries, leading to the grape being named ‘Merlot’.
Pure, 100% Merlot wines are a rarity due to the grape's vigorous nature, often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon. However, Sophie and Damien Bielle, the passionate owners of Maison Bielle, are deeply committed to showcasing the grape's essence. They source grapes from completely biodynamic vineyards, embracing low-intervention winemaking techniques. The wine undergoes hand-harvesting, native yeast fermentation, and exclusive aging in concrete vessels.
This Merlot is exceptionally delightful. True to its origin, it boasts a deep, richly colored core, with complex, tantalizing aromas. Fresh blackberry and dried strawberry notes harmonize with a nutty hint of red miso, tobacco, and violets. The wine is full-bodied, its tannins smoothly integrated yet persistent, complemented by a crisp acidity on the finish. Remarkably, this wine offers stunning quality for its price point! Don't overthink the food pairing – it pairs wonderfully with roasted red meats and holiday dishes. Consider opening it an hour before enjoying it and perhaps giving it a slight chill! — Simi Grewal