La Manarine Carignan, Vaucluse, Rhône Valley, France 2021

Known for its beautiful landscapes, historic villages, and ancient Roman structures, Vaucluse is a warm Mediterranean winegrowing region in the south of the Rhône Valley. The winery behind this wine, Domaine La Manarine, was founded by Gilles Gasq in 2001, and his vineyards are primarily located in the village of Travaillan. Before starting on his own, Gasq worked alongside Paul Jeune at the renowned Domaine Monpertuis in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The estate has rapidly garnered a reputation for crafting wines with exceptional balance, concentration, and expression of terroir. This Carignan, grown in the Vaucluse area, showcases the raw beauty of the region’s diverse soils and warm Mediterranean climate. With an emphasis on purity and minimal intervention, La Manarine’s Carignan is an exciting example of this traditionally rustic variety, offering both depth and freshness.

• WINEMAKER: Julien Brocard

• FARMING: Certified Organic, with sustainable farming practices aimed at enhancing biodiversity and soil health. The vineyard practices minimal intervention, allowing the natural terroir to shine through in the wine.

• VARIETY: 100% Carignan

• TERROIR: Sourced from the Vaucluse, a renowned sub-region of the southern Rhône, known for its sun-drenched vineyards and varied soils, including clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits. The climate is Mediterranean, with warm days and cooler nights, allowing the Carignan grapes to achieve optimal ripeness while retaining their fresh acidity.

• VINIFICATION: The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fruit’s natural expression. After fermentation, the wine is aged in a mix of concrete and stainless steel to maintain its freshness and purity, while also adding structure.

• AGING: Aged for 8-10 months in a combination of concrete vats and stainless steel tanks to maintain the wine's fresh fruit character and bright acidity, while allowing subtle integration of tannins.

• TASTING NOTES: The 2021 Carignan is vibrant and expressive, with aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and plum, along with hints of dried herbs, lavender, and a touch of earthy spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, with firm yet velvety tannins and fresh acidity that lifts the fruit character. The wine finishes with a satisfying depth of flavor, featuring notes of black pepper, subtle oak, and a touch of minerality, making it both approachable and complex.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or Mediterranean dishes like lamb with herbs, ratatouille, or a hearty cassoulet. It also works well with cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or goat cheese.

• SCORES: 91 Points – Wine Spectator; 90 Points – Vinous