2020 Château Laurou "Les Complices" Fronton

Let's talk about Fronton! Not an area that most people are familiar with and the main grape there is called Negrette. Fronton is near the city of Toulouse, which is an epicenter for the wines of Southwest France, often referred to as the Sud-Ouest. Regions like Cahors, Madiran, Marcillac and Gaillac are nearby and each has grape varieties that it specializes in. And, Fronton is focused on Negrette which has a lighter less tannic edge than more famous nearby grapes like Malbec (from Cahors) and Tannat (from Madiran) as well as a less herbal tone than the Fer Servadou/Mansois of nearby Marcillac. Negrette has mineral tones, spice notes and a Merlot-like fleshiness when it is aged in primarily concrete or stainless steel tanks. It is often blended and makes a great teammate with Syrah, hence the name "Les Complices" or the accomplices. The Laurou is a vibrant and pretty wine that makes for a great introduction to the region. Aromas of violets, candied raspberries, redcurrants and licorice lead to a nicely saturated palate of richness. Tannins and acidity balance the wine beautifully and give you both a sensation of Bordeaux and Rhone wines...but something just a little different. At its price, the Laurou makes for one of the best drinking reds in the store right now.