Moonseng Merlot Manseng Noir
⏳ wine.drinking_window
Best enjoyed young and fresh, typically within 1 to 3 years of the vintage release.
🍽️ wine.food_pairings
Charcuterie boards, grilled pork chops, roasted duck breast
✨ wine.spec_sheet
Plaimont's Moonseng is a remarkable testament to ampelographic resurrection and modern viticultural ingenuity. At its heart is Manseng Noir, an ancient, indigenous grape of the Pyrenean foothills that had virtually vanished from the French winemaking landscape. Discovered surviving in historic, pre-phylloxera family plots, this rare variety was painstakingly revived by Plaimont's ampelographers. When blended with the round, plush fruitiness of Merlot, Manseng Noir contributes a vibrant acidity, rustic spicy undertones, and a naturally moderate alcohol level. The name Moonseng playfully nods to this unique grape heritage. Grown on the clay-limestone hillsides of the Gascony region, the grapes undergo traditional vinification designed to emphasize fresh red fruit, soft tannins, and an approachable, crunchy texture that offers a refreshing alternative to heavier regional reds.
🍾 wine.about_producer
Established in 1979 under the visionary leadership of André Dubosc, Plaimont is a pioneering cooperative union located in Saint-Mont within the Gers department of South-West France. By uniting the historic cellars of Plaisance, Aignan, and Saint-Mont, the producer has become a champion for reviving and safeguarding the indigenous heritage grape varieties of the Pyrenean foothills, such as Tannat, Pinenc, Gros Manseng, and Arrufiac. Plaimont is globally renowned for its commitment to ampelographic preservation, famously tending to a historic, pre-phylloxera vineyard parcel that is classified as an official French historic monument. Their diverse portfolio spans expressive, fresh whites, robust reds, and vibrant rosés, exemplified by the Fleur d'Artagnan range and the celebrated late-harvest Saint Albert and Saint Sylvestre wines.