Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant Syrah

Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant: A Bold & Alluring Syrah from Southern France - In-Depth Tasting Notes & Food Pairings

Introduction

Journey to the heart of Provence with Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant, a captivating Syrah from the Ventoux appellation in Southern France. This robust red wine, crafted by maverick winemaker Marc Pichon, is a symphony of bold fruit flavours, enticing spice notes, and a touch of Provençal charm. Buckle up for an in-depth exploration of its tasting profile and discover the perfect food pairings to elevate your culinary experience.

Tasting Notes: A Multi-Sensory Encounter

• Colour: Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant lives up to its name, boasting an inky black colour with deep purple hues. It's a wine that commands attention in the glass.
• Aroma: The first whiff releases a captivating bouquet. Intense aromas of black fruit take centre stage, with ripe plums, blackberries, and a hint of cassis. Woven beneath are intriguing notes of pepper, clove, and a touch of smoky charcuterie, hinting at the oak ageing. Hints of Provençal herbs like lavender and thyme add a touch of regional flair.
• Palate: The first sip is a revelation. The wine boasts a full-bodied mouthfeel, well-structured with smooth, rounded tannins. The explosion of black fruit flavours continues on the palate, joined by hints of dark chocolate, liquorice, and a touch of mocha. The oak influence is evident, adding subtle notes of vanilla and spice that complement the fruit profile beautifully. The 7 grams of residual sugar add a touch of sweetness that balances the bold fruit and tannins, creating a harmonious and lingering finish.

Food Pairings: A Matchmaker's Guide

Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant's bold personality demands equally bold food pairings. Here are some culinary companions that will bring out the best in this exceptional Syrah:

• Red Meat: This wine was practically made for grilled steaks, roasted lamb, or hearty beef stews. The tannins will cut through the richness of the meat, while the fruit and spice notes will complement the savoury flavours.
• Game: The robust profile of Black Elephant stands up beautifully to game meats like venison or wild boar. The earthy notes of the game will be echoed by the spice and leather hints in the wine, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Spicy Food: Don't be afraid to pair Black Elephant with spicy dishes. The wine's tannins and acidity will help to cleanse the palate between bites, while the fruit and spice notes will complement the heat beautifully. Consider curries, fajitas, or spicy sausages.
• Charcuterie & Strong Cheeses: The bold flavours of Black Elephant make it a perfect partner for a charcuterie board laden with cured meats and hard cheeses. The wine's tannins will cut through the richness of the meats and cheeses, while the fruit and spice notes will add a delightful counterpoint. Try pairing it with blue cheese, Gouda, or Roquefort.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Unique Pairings

While the classic pairings mentioned above are surefire hits, Domaine Mur-Mur-Ium Black Elephant's versatility allows for some exciting culinary exploration:

• Hearty Vegetarian Dishes: For a vegetarian option, consider pairing Black Elephant with lentil stew, portobello mushroom burgers, or roasted vegetables drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The wine's earthy notes will complement the savoury flavours of the vegetarian dish.
• Chocolate: Think beyond the cheeseboard! Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is a surprisingly delightful match for Black Elephant. The wine's fruit and spice notes will echo the flavours of the chocolate, creating a decadent and unexpected pairing.