Maury, a small village located in the Roussillon region of France, is known for producing a unique and delicious fortified wine that shares its name. The wines from Maury are made primarily from Grenache grapes, which thrive in the warm Mediterranean climate and rocky terroir of the region.
One of the most renowned styles of wine from Maury is the Vin Doux Naturel (VDN), which translates to “naturally sweet wine.” These wines are produced by halting the fermentation process with the addition of a neutral grape spirit, resulting in a fortified wine with a higher alcohol content and residual sugar.
Maury VDNs are typically aged in large oak barrels, allowing them to develop complex flavors and aromas over time. The aging process imparts a deep, rich color to the wine, ranging from ruby red to mahogany, and contributes to the smoothness and balance on the palate.
The primary grape variety used in Maury wines is Grenache Noir, although small amounts of other local varieties such as Carignan and Syrah may be blended in to add complexity. Grenache Noir is known for its sweet and fruity character, with flavors of ripe berries, cherries, and plums. It also brings a natural acidity that helps to balance the sweetness of the wine.
Maury wines can be classified into different styles based on their sweetness levels. The classifications include:
– Maury Sec: This style is made from fully fermented Grenache grapes and is dry in taste, without any residual sugar. It showcases the fruit-forward flavors of Grenache with a touch of earthiness and spice.
– Maury: These wines are slightly sweet, with a residual sugar content that adds a touch of sweetness to the wine without being cloying. They exhibit a beautiful balance between the natural sweetness and the acidity, making them versatile for pairing with a variety of dishes.
– Maury Rancio: This style is unique to Maury and is achieved through an oxidative aging process. The wine is exposed to air, resulting in a nutty, caramelized flavor profile reminiscent of aged sherries. Maury Rancio wines are typically enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert wine.
The aging potential of Maury wines is impressive, with some of the finest examples capable of aging for decades. The extended time in oak barrels allows the wine to develop tertiary flavors of dried fruits, spices, and toasted nuts, adding complexity and depth to the overall profile.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting a well-aged Maury VDN that was over 20 years old. The wine had transformed into a truly magnificent elixir, with layers of flavors and aromas that evolved in the glass. It paired beautifully with a rich chocolate dessert, enhancing both the sweetness of the wine and the decadence of the dessert.
The wines from Maury are a true gem in the world of fortified wines. They offer a unique combination of sweetness, acidity, and complexity that can be enjoyed both on their own or paired with a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer a dry Maury Sec or a lusciously sweet Maury VDN, these wines are sure to delight and impress.