2014 MONTUS, Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh Sec. SW France

Petit Courbu, with a little Petit Manseng, matured on its lees in 600 litre oak barrels for 14 months.

Alain Brumont was the person to change the reputation of the famously powerful red wines of Madiran. His reds have no lack of structure or authenticity, but the previously dominant rusticity has been eradicated and the intense tannins are carefully managed so the final results are balanced and harmonious.
He runs two estates, Bouscassé and Château Montus and in both also makes fine white wine. Madiran cannot be white, instead it goes by the name (clearly not invented by the marketing department) of Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh.

Unusual for Pacherenc in being made in a serious, age-worthy style – and now perfectly mature. The ambition and skill of its producer is clear to see. A unique south-west white wine, almost shocking at first, but deeply impressive and satisfying, given 5 minutes to open in your glass.