In praise of Elian Da Ros, king of the Marmandais.

Sandrine Farrugia and Elian Da Ros

Every so often 0ne comes across a vigneron who seems to be doing everything right. Doing everything right takes time and starts with years of study and working in different parts of the world or in this case a diffferent part (Alsace), return to the family farm which just happens to be in an area which is barely on the radar (in this case the Cote du Marmandais), go organic and biodynamic and be sure to find a great companion to deal with the myriad tasks no winemaker can deal with in addition to making wine (in this case the charming and helpful Sandrine Farrugia)

Le Vignoble d'Elian is 50% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot and 20% Syrah

Elian Da Ros is the person in question here. We came across one of his wines, 'Le Vignoble d'Elian' at the restaurant 'Les terraces' at St. Paul de Vence last summer and were delighted we had. The blend is Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah. Outstanding.

100% Abouriou

Looking further into Elian's wines we were delighted, charmed even to see that he is working with the local Abouriou grape: one of our favourite discoveries of recent times.

40% Abouriou, 40% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot

Then there is the popular Elian Da Ros 'Le vin est une fete' blend of Abouriou, Cab Franc and Merlot. The property is near the town of Cocumont, only 30km from the Bordeaux appellation's south-east border. However as suggested the Marmandais has been overlooked and its wines are hard to find in wine fairs let alone shops or restaurants. If you do come across a wine from Marmande it is likely to be one of Elian's since he and Sandrine have built up a presence internationally.

Chapeau!