Domaine des Espiers - Côtes du Rhône Villages - Sablet 9 mg - Red - 2023

Wine:

An ode to Grenache, the 2023 Côtes du Rhône Villages Sablet 9 mg Red is a model of balance and finesse. Made without added sulfur (containing just 9 mg of free CO₂) and aged without oak, this wine comes from sandy clay soils and delivers a remarkably pure expression. Aromas of peony and dark berries mingle with a subtle smoky touch, while the palate is smooth, velvety, and generous—lifted by the freshness of Syrah, which adds precision to the blend. A bottle to enjoy right now. A Selection Committee favorite, rated 94/100.

Vinification:

Hand harvested. Traditional vinification. Aged in concrete vats.

Color:

Deep ruby red.

Nose:

Intensely fragrant with notes of peony and a delicate smoky touch.

Palate:

A smooth, flowing structure with supple, velvety tannins and a generous mouthfeel that highlights the Syrah’s fresh, vibrant character.

Temperature:

Serve at 14 to 16°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Beef Wellington with caramelised carrots, braised veal chop with pan-fried mushrooms, Peking duck and reduced gravy.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2030

At his personal estate, Les Espiers, located in Vacqueyras, Philippe Cartoux—husband of Cécile Dusserre of Domaine de Montvac—crafts powerful, long-lived wines using organic farming methods.

Working with an exceptional heritage of vines and a traditional winemaking approach, this estate is a passionate tribute to Grenache in its most authentic form.