Canet Valette : Maghani 2021

Characteristics and tasting advice for Maghani 2021 from Domaine Canet Valette

Tasting

Appearance

Deeply intense garnet in color, the appearance reflects the wine’s concentration and richness.

Nose

The nose reveals remarkable complexity that evokes the Mediterranean terroir. Aromas of red stone fruits, notably sour cherries and cherries, mingle with notes of cocoa and peony. Spicy nuances of nutmeg round out this generous bouquet, alongside hints of blond tobacco and cedar that broaden the aromatic palette.

Palate

On the palate, this wine displays impressive power and aromatic intensity, supported by fine, delicate tannins despite its commanding structure. The texture is round and velvety, with a lovely overall harmony. The gentle, lingering finish unveils finely integrated oaky notes, showcasing impressive length.

Food and wine pairings

Maghani 2021 is an ideal match for game meats, especially woodcock, as well as roasted goose served with spices and candied fruits. It also pairs beautifully with lamb and roasted red meats. For those who enjoy more original pairings, this wine also complements chocolate desserts.

Serving and cellaring

Maghani 2021 can be enjoyed now after extended decanting, but it also offers exceptional aging potential, up to around 2041.

A powerful, complex, age-worthy Saint-Chinian from Languedoc

The estate

Founded in 1992 by Marc Valette in the Saint-Chinian appellation in Languedoc, the Domaine Canet Valette spans 20 hectares and has been certified organic since 1999. Now run by Camille Valette, the founder’s son, the estate stands out for its commitment to authenticity and the expression of terroir. A pioneer of Languedoc’s quality-focused movement of the 1990s, the estate produces around 75,000 bottles each year, including its emblematic cuvées Maghani, Une et Mille Nuits and Antonyme.

The vineyard

The Maghani vines are planted on clay-limestone soils, facing due south at an altitude of 150 meters within the Saint-Chinian appellation. This privileged location encourages optimal ripening of the grapes. Yields are deliberately limited to 18 to 22 hectoliters per hectare, allowing for exceptional juice concentration and remarkable polyphenolic richness.

The vintage

The 2021 vintage in Languedoc was marked by a harsh winter, with a frost episode affecting French vineyards. A milder spring encouraged flowering in late May, followed by particularly rainy June and July. Weather instability was observed from mid-July to mid-August, before more favorable conditions toward the end of the season.

Vinification and aging

Since 1996, the grapes for Maghani 2021 have been fully destemmed before fermentation. Maceration lasts an impressive 70 to 90 days depending on the vintage, with regular punch-downs promoting optimal extraction. Aging extends over 36 months, including 24 months in barrels for 50% of the total volume. The wine is bottled without fining or filtration, preserving the integrity of all its natural components.

Grape varieties

Grenache, mourvèdre and syrah.