Aramon Noir is a black grape variety that is indigenous to Southern France. Aramon comes in 3 distinct berry colors, Blanc, Gris and Noir. The Gris and Blanc iterations are nearly extinct due to a decrease in land under vine over the last 50 years. They combine for about 60 hectares according to the statistics from 2006. They are used in blends with other white grapes. Aramon Noir was once planted in Algeria but now virtually all plantings are in the Languedoc region. The black grape was first mentioned in writings dating back to the early 19th century. The name was likely from rameux, which translates into ‘branched’. It was the most commonly planted grape in the Languedoc region until the 1950s, when it was overtaken by Carignan. During its peak, Aramon Noir was used in the production of high volume, low concentration wines.
This week I drank a 2022 Domaine Mont de Marie Anathème Rouge. This wine is 80% Carignan and 20% Aramon. This wine is a medium purple color with magenta highlights. There are aromas of red and black plum, sour red cherries, black cherries, red currants, wet stone, dried herbs and some acetone (volatile acidity discussed last week). On the palate, this dry red wine has a bright level of acidity and low level of alcohol. These were surprising characteristics because of the warm, mediterranean climate where these grapes are grown. There are minimal soft tannins that contribute some texture to the medium bodied wine. The red and black fruit notes are vibrant on the front palate and followed by the non fruit notes on the extended finish. This is a great red wine for a warm spring or summer afternoon.This would be a good option to bring to a summer BBQ because it can pair with lighter and darker cuts of meat. The acidity would also complement fats in charcuterie.
-TheLooseTannin
A Trip Around the World of Wine in 52 Weeks 