Henri Milan Le Jardin Red 2016
is a highly sought-after, 100% natural Merlot crafted by natural wine pioneer Henri Milan in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. Defying local appellation rules that restrict pure Merlot, Milan bottles this cuvée as a Vin de France. He passionately produces it to rival the finesse and concentration of finest Bordeaux.
- Grape Variety: 100% Merlot.
- Viticulture: Certified organic and biodynamic farming. Vines are planted on rare blue clay (marl) and limestone soils.
- Vinification: 5-day skin maceration with wild yeasts. Aged for 12 months in 500-liter oak barrels (90% old, 10% new).
- Intervention: Zero added sulfites (<10 mg/L). Unfined and unfiltered.
- Rarity: Extremely limited production, yielding only about 2,500 bottles per year.
- Aroma: Intense bouquet of wild strawberries, ripe red berries, and dark plum. It unfolds into complex layers of savory black truffle, fine leather, warm spices, and garrigue (Mediterranean scrub).
- Palate: Finesse-driven and highly concentrated yet elegant. It features silky, ultra-fine tannins, balanced freshness, and a persistent finish of candied dark fruits and a salivating touch of licorice.
This savory, deep red pairs beautifully with hearty, rich dishes. It complements slow-braised osso buco, a premium cut of roasted beef, or game meats.