La Terrasse d'Elise - PMG Cuvée - Nielluccio 2023
La Terrasse d'Élise is one of the most sought-after estates in Languedoc, led by Xavier Braujou, a winemaker based in Hérault and recognized for his very personal approach to grape varieties. In a region historically marked by blends, the estate has distinguished itself by a single-varietal reading, seeking to reveal the uniqueness of each variety with finesse and precision. The wines are generally labeled IGP Pays d'Hérault, which allows great freedom of expression, far from overly restrictive frameworks. The PMG 2023 Cuvée fits into this approach with a rare choice for Languedoc: Nielluccio, an emblematic grape variety of Corsica. Its name, "Pour Ma Gueule," expresses a form of freedom and humor, but the cuvée is nonetheless among the most ambitious expressions of the estate. It reflects Xavier Braujou's ability to break new ground while maintaining his signature freshness, purity, and delicate touch. La Terrasse d'Élise PMG Nielluccio 2023 thus presents itself as a confidential, original, and deeply refined red.
The PMG 2023 cuvée is made from 100% Nielluccio, a southern grape variety mostly associated with great Corsican reds, notably for its ability to combine black fruit, spices, freshness, and structure. In Hérault, this grape takes on a unique dimension, retaining its Mediterranean character while fitting into the precise and pure style of La Terrasse d'Élise. Available sources indicate a low-intervention vinification with indigenous yeasts, followed by 24 months aging in barrels. This long aging refines the texture, polishes the tannins, and adds depth without erasing the grape's identity. The 2023 vintage produces a wine that is both generous, crunchy, and elegant, supported by notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, spices, licorice, and rosemary. PMG 2023 does not seek exuberance but a balance between ripeness, freshness, and tannic precision. It is a cuvée of patience, deserving a few years of aging to reveal all its complexity.
On tasting, La Terrasse d'Élise PMG Nielluccio 2023 shows a deep, bright red color with dark and luminous reflections. The nose may evoke blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, sweet spices, licorice, rosemary, and a touch of fine garrigue. On the palate, the wine is fruity, crunchy, and structured, with a velvety texture and well-defined tannins. Nielluccio brings beautiful energy, a slightly wild freshness, and a spicy dimension that lengthens the finish. The whole remains very precise, in a style more elegant than demonstrative, faithful to Xavier Braujou's signature. This red will ideally accompany roasted herb lamb, veal with olives, duck with sweet spices, grilled rib steak, Corsican or Mediterranean cuisine, as well as confit vegetables. It can be enjoyed after decanting but will gain complexity with a few years in the cellar.
Grape variety: 100% Nielluccio
