French winemaker Barton & Guestier (B&G) has extended its Appellation (AOC) range, with the addition of three expressions. The company has also welcomed a new Réserve varietal and has moved into the no-alcohol category for the first time.
Barton & Guestier General Manager Philippe Marion said: “With three new appellation wines, a new varietal and a non-alcoholic premium sparkling, the oldest wine merchant in Bordeaux keeps on innovating at full speed with great quality products.”
As reported, B&G revealed a sparkling B&G NectaRose 0.0%, which is presented in a 250ml aluminium bottle earlier this month. The premium alcohol-free rosé is based on organic grape juice, with a touch of rose. The drink is natural, vegan friendly, halal, without added sugars, preservatives or added sulphites.
B&G said the new expression aims to reach a younger generation of drinkers; those wanting to socialise and reduce their alcohol intake and consumers who prefer RTDs to bottles.
Marion pointed out that B&G’s innovation team aims at responsible product development, favouring lightweight bottles, recycled paper for labels and vegetable ink dyes, as well as carton outer shippers.
For the first time in its history in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, B&G has welcomed a Côtes du Rousillon Villages wine to its Appellation range. The Côtes du Roussillon Villages red wines are known for their rich, fruity flavours and aromas, with notes of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, as well as hints of spice and herbs.
The deep red Côtes du Rousillon Villages Les 3 Rius takes its name from three regional rivers – L’Agly, Le Tech and La Têt – and offers notes of grilled and jammy fruit with spicy garrigue.
B&G’s extended AOC offer also includes Crozes-Hermitage Terre de Violettes 2022, from the Rhône and named after the aroma which is particular to the Syrah [also known as Shiraz] grape variety. Its third newcomer, the 100% Sauvignon Blanc Terre d’Aubuis from the Loire region, pays tribute to one of the of the oldest appellations in France.
B&G has also extended its Réserve range with the Malbec grape variety. Barton & Guestier Winemaker Laurent Prada commented: “Our goal with the B&G Réserve Varietal range is to highlight the unique characteristics of each grape, such as its aroma, flavour, and texture and Malbec is a very interesting addition to the range.”
Malbec wines have aromas of dark fruit, such as blackberries, back cherries and plums. They can also have notes of black pepper, tobacco, leather, and earthy undertones.
B&G Réserve Malbec 2022 is presented in a lightweight bottle and has a garnet red colour. Suggested food pairings include red meat, spicy and Mediterranean dishes, poultry, pasta and cheese. 
