Cotes du Rhone, Domaine de la Solitude

Producer Note

Wines have been made on this estate for several hundred years, dating back to 1264 when the family arrived from Italy to serve the pope in Avignon. The three hats depicted on the label, signifies two bishops and a pope, who were among the fore fathers of the Lançon family. Today, the domain with its 38 hectares in the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation, is passing to the next generation as brothers Jean and Michel Lançon are handing over the reins to Florent, Michel's son. Florent, who is passionate about innovative winemaking, while honouring traditional values, has recently started working with new tulip-shaped concrete vats which were initially designed for Cheval Blanc and are at the cutting edge of winemaking technology. Domaine de la Solitude’s wines are renowned for their characteristic elegance whilst expressing the true origins of their terroir.

Vineyard

The Côtes du Rhône vineyards are situated mainly in Gard, with over 50% of the grapes coming from Côtes du Rhône Villages vineyards; the remainder coming from the named parcels of Plan de Dieu and Rasteau. The vineyards all have a stony, granitic soil structure.

Winemaking

The grapes were fully de-stemmed. Fermentation took place in temperature controlled concrete tanks, with 25 days of maceration. Gentle extraction techniques such as pumping over or ‘remontage’, were used to retain the purity of fruit and obtain the velvety tannins which are characteristic of Domaine de la Solitude. The wine was matured in 100% in concrete tank, as per the traditional vinification of the Southern Rhône Valley.

Tasting Note

An enticing nose of concentrated, ripe red berry fruits, enhanced by subtle notes of black pepper and spice. Supple and rounded on the palate, supported by a delicate tannic structure.

Serving Suggestion

Roasted duck fillets with polenta; roasted meats or rich lentil dishes.

Grape

Grenache 60%, Syrah 30%, Mourvèdre 10%