France | Languedoc Roussilon | Domaine des Homs | Coteaux de Peyriac L'Amandier Rouge

Coteaux de Peyriac L'Amandier Rouge

Varietal
Cinsault

Notes
VINEYARD: The vineyard - the lieu-dit L'Armandier - is situated on a small parcel of terraced land near the domaine, consisting of sand, schist and silt soils. The terroir enjoys a hot Mediterranean climate, cooled by the drying Tramontagne breezes, which keep the grapes free of mildew and other vine disease. Certified organic since 2009, which prohibits the use of all synthetic chemicals in favor of natural composts, infusions and treatments—all applied in accordance with the lunar calendar. The family distinguishes themselves by an intensive form of deep soil plowing, called décavaillonage, which uproots weeds and grasses and tills them, thereby forcing the roots to plunge more deeply and enriching the soil, while also making it resistant to drought. Vines were planted in 1995 and 2010.

VINIFICATION: After the grapes are harvested, they are brought back to the winery where they are sorted on a conveyor belt to ensure that only the finest are selected for fermentation. The Cinsault is 100% de-stemmed, pressed, cold-soaked, and left to settle for 36 hours on native yeasts. A short fermentation is performed at cool temperatures to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes, lasting about 15 days. Once malolactic fermentation is complete, the wine is aged for five months in tank to create a lively, fresh and quaffable red. The finished wine is left unfined and lightly filtered. Bottling generally takes place in February, on the same date as the flowering of the almond trees, from where the cuvee “L’Amandier” (or almond tree) derives its name. No additional sulfur is added to the wine.

TASTING NOTES: Bursting with notes of blueberries, cassis and strawberries and seemingly seasoned with white pepper, “L’Amandier” is the ultimate easy-drinking, everyday red. Generous on the nose, supple on the palate and vibrant on the finish, it rolls across the palate effortlessly. It’s easy nature makes it a great candidate for pairing with almost anything you are serving at the table, from a simple antipasti or charcuterie plate to barbecue.