2022 Montesquieu Malbec Napa Valley

$60.00

From the foothills of Mt Veeder, we just released one of the best Malbec's we've ever had, and that's saying something!

100% Malbec, barrel fermented and crafted in Camille Benitah's true artisinal style, this is a wine like no other.

'22 was the perfect year for this particular block, which caught the sunlight perfectly and gave us big, round, shiny black berries that Cam said reminded her of fish eyes, the skins were so dark and shiny. 

It's a lush, complex wine that truly eflects it's unique terroir. of the region. The color is a deep, inky purple with garnet reflections and the powerful density promises richness and concentration. It's nose opens with ripe blackberries, dark plums, and black cherry. Earthy undertones of forest floor and graphite balance the fruit-forward profile. Hints of vanilla, mocha, and spice from the new french oak all add to its aromatic complexity. The palate really delivers, this is a bold and full-bodied Malbec. Rich, concentrated flavors of dark fruits like cassis, blueberry compote, and fig combine with great structure, velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a plush texture. Mineral notes of crushed stone, characteristic of Mt. Veeder, intermingle with nuances of cocoa, tobacco, and a touch of dried herbs. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of blackberry jam, toasted oak, and a whisper of spice, subtle notes of cinnamon and clove.

It pairs perfects with herb-crusted lamb chops, grilled portobello mushrooms, or even a smoky blue cheese, but the robust profile will complement just about any hearty dish beautifully.

We expect the best when it comes to Camille's artisinal wines and this Malbec is all about complexity, concentration, depth and finesse.

Note: We only produced one barrel, but with 1000 pounds of berries!
Eleanor of Aquitaine graces our bottle, a nod to the great Queen who preferred Malbec to all other wines and is what she always served!
Here's a little history of her life-
Eleanor of Aquitaine (1122–1204) was one of the most influential and remarkable women of the medieval period. Her life was marked by power, ambition, and cultural patronage, leaving an indelible legacy in European history. Here are the key highlights:

1. Heiress to Aquitaine

  • Born into one of the wealthiest and most influential noble families in Europe, Eleanor inherited the Duchy of Aquitaine in 1137, making her the most desirable heiress of her time. Aquitaine was a vast and prosperous region in southwestern France.

2. Queen of France

  • In 1137, Eleanor married Louis VII, the King of France, becoming Queen of France. Their marriage was politically significant, as it united Aquitaine with the French crown.
  • Eleanor accompanied Louis VII on the Second Crusade (1147–1149), a rare and bold move for a queen. However, the crusade ended in failure, and tensions arose in their marriage.

3. Marriage Annulled

  • In 1152, her marriage to Louis VII was annulled, officially on the grounds of consanguinity (being too closely related). However, their lack of a male heir and personal differences were likely significant factors.

4. Queen of England

  • Just two months after her annulment, Eleanor married Henry II, Duke of Normandy, who soon became King of England in 1154. This marriage brought Aquitaine under English control, intensifying the Angevin Empire's rivalry with France.
  • As Queen of England, Eleanor had significant influence, particularly in the administration of Aquitaine.

5. Patron of Culture and the Arts

  • Eleanor was a renowned patron of the arts, especially troubadours and courtly love literature. She played a central role in the cultural flowering of the 12th century.
  • Her court in Aquitaine was known for its sophistication and promotion of chivalry and literature.

6. Role in Politics and Rebellion

  • Eleanor and Henry II had a tumultuous marriage, marked by power struggles. She bore eight children, including future kings Richard I ("the Lionheart") and John.
  • In 1173, she supported a rebellion by her sons against Henry II, leading to her imprisonment for over 15 years.

7. Regent and Influence on the Crusades

  • After Henry II’s death in 1189, Eleanor was released and became an influential advisor to her son, King Richard I. She played a pivotal role in governing England during Richard’s absence on the Third Crusade.
  • She also helped negotiate Richard's ransom when he was captured on his way home.

8. Lasting Legacy

  • Eleanor lived into her 80s, an impressive feat for the time. She retired to the Abbey of Fontevraud, where she spent her final years.
  • Her life exemplifies power and agency in an era when women rarely wielded such influence. She left a lasting legacy as a political strategist, cultural patron, and matriarch of a legendary dynasty.
Eleanor’s remarkable life continues to inspire and fascinate historians, making her one of the most extraordinary figures of the medieval period.


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