This is gloriously rich and dark with layers of classic herbs from the Roussillon.
Nose A booming nose of mature dark spiced fruit compote, with loads of ripe fig, damson and black cherry aromas, and just a suggestion of oak.
Mouth Rich and silky mouthfeel just oozing dark fruit, wild herbs and sweet cinnamon and a long finish.
Winemaking Notes All are grapes for Domaine of the Bee were hand harvested, and then hand-sorted at the winery to ensure they only chose the healthiest and ripest grapes. The majority of their Carignan is fermented in a stainless steel tank, except for 2 barrels-worth which was cold-macerated, as was all of the Grenache in upturned demi-muids (500L barrels) with the ends taken out, before being warmed up, inoculated with yeast, and gently punched down 2-3 times a day. After pressing, all of the wine was drained into a mixture of 500L and 225L barrels, approximately a quarter of which are new, and left to mature for 14 months.
Growing Conditions Hail and frost severely reduced crops in several regions. But the the Roussillon region was very lucky. A very hot June and July quickly ripened their grapes, and a much cooler August helped to retain acidity and freshness. Despite a slight lack of water and smaller-sized grapes, this harvest generated very tasty wines.
Food Pairing Great with grilled red meat, hearty stews, BBQ, and hard cheeses.