Vosne-Romanée, Arnaud Baillot, Burgundy 2022 vs Xavier Roger Big Beltie Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Xavier Roger Big Beltie Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Frédéric Garrabou Big Beltie is a rich, fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignon from the Languedoc-Roussillon — a wine that delivers serious character at a very approachable price. Named with a nod to the Belted Galloway cattle breed, this is a bold, no-nonsense red with ripe blackcurrant and cassis at its core, soft tannins, and a subtle touch of American oak. Exactly the kind of bottle you want on a weeknight without compromising on quality. Why You'll Love It Frédéric Garrabou grew up surrounded by the vineyards of Limoux, steeped in generations of vine-growing knowledge. His philosophy is simple: meticulous work in the vineyard, optimal ripeness, and minimal interference to let the terroir speak. Extended maceration of around ten weeks extracts maximum colour, flavour, and structure — giving Big Beltie a depth and richness that belies its price point. Vineyard & Production Grapes are hand-harvested at peak ripeness, destemmed, and crushed before extended maceration of approximately ten weeks to extract maximum colour, flavour, and structure. Around one third of the wine is aged in half-toasted American oak to add complexity and subtle oak nuances, while the remainder is kept in tank to preserve pure varietal expression. Tasting Notes Deep ruby in colour. The nose presents ripe blackcurrant and cassis with hints of smoke and pepper. On the palate, the wine is soft yet structured — ripe tannins, a savoury coffee note, and a balanced, lingering finish that keeps you reaching for another glass. Perfect Pairings Made for red meat. Excellent with grilled or pan-fried steak, lamb chops, hearty casseroles, and slow-roasted shoulder of beef. Also a great match for mature cheddar or a smoky barbecue spread. The Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 100%