Viniou Reviews
Domaine S Schistes’ Cuvée La Coumeille 2020 from the Côtes du Roussillon Villages AOC is a striking red wine that beautifully encapsulates the region’s sun-drenched character. This cuvée is composed of classic Southern French grape varieties, most likely Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, which thrive in the rugged and mineral-rich terroirs of Roussillon. The 2020 vintage experienced a favourable growing season, providing excellent ripeness and concentration to the grapes. The vines grow predominantly on schistous soils—hence the domaine’s name—which impart a distinct minerality and structure to the wine. Vinification here typically emphasises both preserving the freshness of the fruit and showcasing the intensity of the terroir, often with a judicious use of oak to add complexity without overwhelming the ripe varietal expression.
The Roussillon region lies in France’s far south, nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. This area benefits from a warm, dry climate, with generous sunshine tempered by mountain breezes. The combination of intense sunlight and cooling influences allows grapes to reach full maturity while maintaining a fresh balance—ideal for producing robust, yet elegant reds. Ancient schist and clay-limestone soils further contribute distinctive earthy and smoky notes, while the region’s turbulent history—marked by Catalan and French influences—is reflected in its complex, vibrant wines.
For food pairings, the Cuvée La Coumeille’s concentration and spiced black fruit profile shine alongside Mediterranean cuisine. Consider heartier meat dishes such as slow-braised lamb shoulder with thyme, Catalan-style grilled sausages, or a classic cassoulet. The wine’s savoury undertones also make it an excellent match for roasted vegetables with herbes de Provence, or a plate of mature, hard cheeses from the region.
To fully appreciate its aromatic depth and supple tannins, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16°C and 18°C. It will benefit from a short period of aeration after opening, which will allow its nuanced red and black fruit, garrigue, and mineral notes to emerge. Enjoy now or over the next five to eight years for further development in bottle.
