The vineyards that the Plaimont group holds were originally planted in the 4th century BC. In the 10th century, Benedictine monks founded the Madiran abbey and improved the quality of the wine grown there. Pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela would stop at the abbey, enjoy the wine and sing Madiran's praises throughout Europe. In 1948, Madiran became an A.O.C and due to a string of bad vintages and a unstable financial market promptly fell into obscurity. In ’79, a handful of determined winegrowers, assisted by André Dubosc embarked on the challenge of giving nobility back to this storied A.O.C. and founded Plaimont. They respect age-old traditions and are keenly aware of the necessity to preserve the vineyards and heritage of the A.O.C. It is their goal that future generations should utilize the land as they do, so they have employed environmentally sustainable methods in the vineyards and winery.

This inky red offers up sublime, ripe, black plum aromas on the nose. On the palate it is very well-balanced and fruity, featuring rich plum and black currant flavors accented by hints of black olive and underbrush. The ample, juicy middle palate is buoyed by supple acidity and leads into a harmonious finish of fine, full tannins, capped by chewy black plum tones. This robust, yet easy-going Madiran will pair beautifully with garlic sausage, braised lamb shank, cassoulet or just about any other rich and hearty fare.

—Donald