Mary Taylor Wines Merlot, Perigord, France 2023

Mary Taylor Wines works with small family estates across Europe to showcase regional identity and authenticity. This bottling comes from Fabien Castain’s organically farmed vineyards in Périgord, where rolling hills of clay, limestone, and boulbène echo the terroir of neighboring Bordeaux.

• WINEMAKER: Fabien Castain.

• FARMING: Certified Organic since 2000; HVE 3 certified since 2013.

• VARIETY: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.

• TERROIR: IGP Périgord (Nouvelle-Aquitaine). Vineyards sit on clay, limestone, flint, and boulbène soils. Transitional hills segmented by rivers and tributaries, with a semi-Atlantic climate: regular spring rains, hot dry summers, and refreshed soils with winter showers.

• VINIFICATION: Native yeast fermentation in concrete tanks; minimal intervention.

• AGING: Raised in concrete to preserve freshness and purity of fruit.

• TASTING NOTES: Supple and approachable with black plum, cassis, and redcurrant, framed by gentle spice and earthy undertones. Medium-bodied with soft tannins, lively acidity, and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Roast chicken, duck confit, charcuterie, mushroom ragout, and truffle-accented dishes of Périgord.