The 1991 Corbieres of Guilhem Durand received a review in The Wine Advocate of 88 points. It was 70% Syrah. In 1993 Durand lost his property but has been able to get it back. The 1994 vintage was his first, since reacquisition, and our selection had an even higher proportion of Syrah-virtually all Syrah. Therefore, since one is not allowed to state the varietal in conjunction with appellation Corbieres (under French Law), Durand and I have "de-classified" his Wine to hauterive, and can thus state Syrah on the label. And it is certainly oozing with Syrah-deep purple, extracted color, loads of fruit, ripe, soft tannins, and great texture, all due at least in part to not filtering. The 1998*, which is 100% Syrah, is his best effort to date-deep color and fruit, with amazing depth and length, while mastering the tannins beautifully. 

*The '95 was described by Robert Parker as "Wow! What a terrific value this wine represents. A textbook Syrah nose of jammy Cassis and pepper follows the opaque purple color. Chewy and medium to full-bodied, with a gorgeous texture, this luscious, well-made wine is a remarkable value. Drink it over the next four to five years."

The 1997 is 90% Syrah and 10% Grenache. It displays ripe, rich, soft fruit and tannins. A delectable bargain.

From Le Classement, 1999 Revue du Vin de France

"Numerous Corbieres are flavored by a certain rusticity that considerably dries out in the mouth when they are consumed. The wines of the Chateau la Bastide do not have this fault. Well to the contrary, they ally a distinct density to a true freshness, and their long and fruity finish is very enjoyable. Moreover, their prices seem very reasonable. So much the better!"

 Technical Information:

Domaine La Bastide Viognier 06
Domaine La Bastide 2006 Roussanne
Domaine La Bastide 2005 Douce Folie VDP

Domaine La Bastide 2005 Syrah
Domaine La Bastide  2005 Merlot
Domaine La Bastide 2005 Viognier

Domaine La Bastide 2004 Merlot
Domaine La Bastide 2004 Syrah
Domaine La Bastide 2003 Vin de Pays