The 2020 Château Maris La Touge Syrah is a beautifully expressive and biodynamically crafted red from the prestigious cru of Minervois-La Livinière in the Languedoc, showcasing the richness and savoury complexity of Southern French Syrah blends. Produced by Château Maris — one of the region’s leading organic and biodynamic estates — the wine is crafted primarily from Syrah alongside Grenache and a small portion of Carignan, sourced from sustainably farmed hillside vineyards rich in schist, limestone and sandstone soils. Château Maris has become internationally recognised for its environmentally pioneering approach, including Demeter-certified biodynamic viticulture and one of the world’s first hemp-built wineries. The warm and generous 2020 vintage delivered wines of excellent concentration while retaining freshness, aromatic purity and structure.
The nose reveals ripe blackberry, cassis and dark cherry layered with cracked pepper, smoked herbs, violets and classic garrigue notes, giving the wine remarkable aromatic lift and Mediterranean character. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and an impressively polished texture. Layers of black fruits, roasted spices, bitter chocolate and savoury herbs unfold with excellent balance and freshness, finishing long, supple and gently mineral-driven. Critics praised the wine’s purity, texture and elegance, with Decanter highlighting its “beautiful texture” and vibrant herbal complexity, while James Suckling noted its velvety texture and spicy, fruit-driven finish. The combination of richness, freshness and biodynamic precision makes La Touge one of the standout values from the Languedoc in this vintage.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2020 Château Maris La Touge Syrah is a superb Southern French red — generous, savoury and beautifully balanced with impressive depth and drinkability. A fantastic choice for lovers of Rhône-style blends and polished Syrah-driven wines. Perfect with grilled lamb, slow-cooked beef, charcuterie, smoky barbecue dishes or hard cheeses. Decant for 30 minutes if drinking now or cellar comfortably through 2030+.
