Wines Côtes du Roussillon Villages Moura Lympany - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Moura Lympany’s 2021 red from the Côtes du Roussillon Villages AOC is a fine example of the robust and characterful wines that the Roussillon region consistently produces. Though the precise blend isn’t specified, reds from this appellation commonly feature Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvèdre, resulting in wines that marry ripe black fruit, spicy undertones, garrigue herbs and a backbone of refreshing minerality. 2021 was a vintage marked by cooler-than-average conditions, allowing for slower ripening and excellent freshness in the resulting wines, with well-structured tannins and vivid aromatics. Vinification in this region typically involves careful parcel selection and gentle extraction to preserve fruit purity and balance.

Roussillon is a region steeped in history, nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. The climate here is one of the sunniest in France, yet it is moderated by cooling maritime breezes and significant diurnal temperature variation, which contribute to both ripe phenolic development and an impressive sense of vitality in the wines. Soils are diverse, ranging from schistous slopes to clay-limestone terraces and pockets of pebbly alluvium. This patchwork not only enables fascinating blends but also imparts a pronounced sense of place, often highlighted by wild herbal notes—typical of the 'garrigue' landscape. Historically, Roussillon was a crossroads of cultures, which is reflected both in the resilient character of its wines and the rich local cuisine.

This Moura Lympany red, with its bold fruit and savoury, spicy nuances, is tailor-made for flavourful pairings. Consider traditional southern French dishes such as lamb shoulder with thyme and olives, duck breast with cherries, or Catalan-style sausage with white beans. It is equally at home alongside a simple ratatouille or hard, aged cheeses like Ossau-Iraty. For international cuisine, try it with paprika-spiced grilled meats or smoky, slow-cooked barbecue.

To fully enjoy its aromatic depth and supple structure, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving will help open up its bouquet, especially in its youth. This wine has potential for further ageing, but delivers satisfying pleasure even now with an appropriate meal.