Tavel La Combe des Rieu 2023 Gaël Petit | Rhône

La Combe des Rieu by Gaël Petit - Moulin La Viguerie refers to the Louis Rieu wine estate, great-grandfather of Mireille Petit-Roudil. On one of Tavel's finest terroirs, the lieu-dit Les Vestides, old vines planted with Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Carignan and Clairette draw from the depths of this stony limestone and rounded pebble soil. Natural winemaking and Gaël Petit's signature "mille-feuille" semi-carbonic maceration produce a cuvée of grandiose balance, resting for around 12 months in old oak barrels to gain in harmony and fine structure.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Domaine Moulin La Viguerie is renowned for its unique philosophy of vineyard work and wine-making. Low yields, the coexistence of young and old vines in the same plot, often in combination with other grape varieties, are all practices based on close observation of the interactions between vine and terroir, where respect for each grape variety is a daily priority. La Combe des Rieu reflects Gaël Petit's meticulous approach, with the depth and complexity typical of the best Tavel wines.

On the nose, the wine is expressive and complex. The palette reveals intense notes of red fruit, laurel and pepper. Hints of dried flowers and zesty citrus add further delicacy.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with a remarkable balance between tannic and saline freshness, and complex, intense aromas. As the tasting progresses, the aromas of crushed red fruit, juniper berry and dried peony become more clearly defined. The finish is long-lasting yet easy to digest.