Res Fortes · Merlot Madness · Côtes du Roussillon, France · 2021

The Moment

This is the bottle you open when you want something expressive and easy — juicy, smooth, and instantly welcoming. It’s a wine for flexible dinners, relaxed company, and nights when the bottle quietly disappears before you notice.

What It Feels Like

The nose is bright and inviting. Mulberry, blueberry, and red cherry lead, lifted by floral notes of rose and violet. A gentle sprinkle of black pepper and a touch of forest floor add an earthy undertone that keeps the aromatics grounded rather than sweet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and fruit-driven, built around tart black and dark red fruits — plum, blackberry, and cherry — with subtle notes of fig and grilled pepper emerging as it opens. Whole-berry fermentation gives the fruit a juicy, almost crunch-like quality that feels fresh and modern.

The texture is plush and seductive. Moderate tannins feel soft and rounded, balanced by lively acidity that keeps the wine energetic and food-friendly. The finish is moderately long, focused, and lightly earthy.

Perfect For

Weeknight dinners and shared plates
Roast chicken, pork, or grilled vegetables
Charcuterie and casual cheese boards
Drinking on its own, no food required

The Vibe Pairing

Playlist energy: Indie soul, modern folk, laid-back dinner playlists
Aura color: Deep ruby, violet petal, warm earth
Time of day: Early dinner → second glass → bottle empties quietly

Why We Love It

Merlot Madness lives up to its name — expressive, juicy, and unapologetically drinkable. The 2021 vintage delivers ripe fruit, floral lift, and plush texture without oak heaviness, earning its reputation as a true “foodie wine.” Approachable, versatile, and quietly charming.

Juicy & Plush · Still Red