The vineyard:
The rugged terrain of the Côte Vermeille is schistous rock covered by a thick layer of soil In this Mediterranean climate, the vine must develop a powerful root system to extract the water and nutrients it needs. With a very low yield only (around 5000 stocks/hectare), the exposure to the sun and Tramontane, the grapes are healthy and concentrated.
The layout of the vineyard hanging from the steep slopes is dominated by low dry-stone walls that draw horizontal terraces in the landscape, giving the traditional architecture seen. The steepness make any mechanization impossible and work must be exclusively by hand.
Tasting & food pairing:
Thanks to the black Grenache, the nose is fruity with small hints of fresh berries, and concentrated. The round mouth offers silky tannins and can be appreciated young.
La Pinède is ideal with white or red meats and even fishes. As an aperitif, it should be served at around 16°c.
Varieties:
65% Black Grenache
30% Mourvèdre
5% Carignan
Vinification & ageing:
Picked at good maturity, grapes are cooled and destemmed. A controlled temperature during maceration time allows the fine aromas to extract and the full body is reached by 5 weeks maceration. Then a short ageing in tank ends the process.
Alcohol content: 14.5%