Chateaux Ollieux Romanis is situated in an elegant 19th-century chateau at Monseret in the heart of the Boutenac region of the Corbieres and has been in the hands of the Bories family since the mid 19th century. There are 130 hectares in total and the estate is currently administered by Pierre Bories who in turn is assisted by wine maker Jean-Pierre Amiques. The vines are planted on red clay soil and face south east on a sheltered hillside known as the 'Pinada'. The estate is currently working its way to fully-organic status having dispensed with herbicides and pesticides in the late 1990's. 'Lo Petit Fantet d'Hyppolite' is a blend of mainly Carignan with a splash each of Grenache Noir and Syrah and is fermented with natural yeasts and no added sulphur. The label is designed by Pierre's young son, Hippolyte, who often accompanies his father into the vineyards.
A dark ruby-purple in the glass. On the nose, notes of thyme, rosemary and black cherry with a hint of woody spice. On the palate, a touch of sweetness with bags of black fruits. Medium acidity with balanced tannins and a touch of minerality. The finish is smooth and lingering. Drink with an Aligot of potatoes, fresh tome cheese and garlic, Boules de Picolat (beef and sausage meatballs in a tomato sauce) or ratatouille with black olives, red wine vinegar and capers for extra zing.