Jean-Claude Mas has had a hit with the Arrogant Frog range. From the Upper Aude Valley in the Limoux region of Languedoc, southern France, sub-labelled Lily Pad Noir.

Jean-Claude Mas, Arrogant Frog, Pinot Noir, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2024

Deep garnet colour. Maraschino and black cherry, blood orange, raspberry, pâté and autumnal leaf matter, Fruity, mid-weight. It’s a touch confected, with blueberry muffin vibes along with the liqueur cherries. There’s a very short finish, punctuated with a ferrous steely note, while the tannin profile is waxy, grippy and tart. Missing a little ‘Pinosity’ and delicacy, but there’s decent fruit. One for those that want a fruity, mid-weight wine.

RRP: $13.99
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 87/100

Wine sample courtesy of Palate PR and Pinnacle Drinks