Les Clos de Paulilles Cuvée AAA 2022 is a red wine hailing from the Collioure AOC, a unique appellation nestled in the heart of Roussillon, southern France. The wine is crafted from a blend typically featuring Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, emblematic of the region’s Mediterranean reds, though precise varietal proportions may vary. The 2022 vintage enjoyed warm months and a balanced maturation, resulting in a wine that beautifully expresses the sun-drenched coastal terroir. The proximity of the vines to the sea, combined with the steep schistous slopes, imparts a distinctive minerality and freshness to the blend. Careful vinification respects both fruit and structure, with gentle extraction to preserve supple tannins and a layered complexity.
Collioure itself is famed for its dramatic meeting of the Pyrenees with the Mediterranean. The region's terraced vineyards cling to rocky soils of dark brown schist, absorbing the abundant sunlight and channelling rainfall efficiently due to their steep incline. The climate is distinctly Mediterranean: hot, dry summers, mild winters, and cooling sea breezes, ideal for concentration of flavours and maintaining vivid acidity. Historically, Collioure shares its border with Banyuls and has long produced both fortified and dry wines, drawing on a rich winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times. The area’s resilience and reputation for quality stem from its challenging topography and dedication to low yields of exceptional fruit.
For food pairings, Collioure reds are robust yet refined, making them natural companions to hearty cuisine. Roasted lamb with herbs de Provence, duck breast with figs, or a classic cassoulet will complement the wine's savoury fruit notes and underlying spice. Regional fare such as anchovy-laden pissaladière or Catalan charcuterie also highlight the wine’s saline nuance and vibrant aromatics. Mature cheeses, particularly sheep’s milk Brebis, will enhance the wine’s silky texture and lingering finish.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C after a brief decant to allow its full bouquet and structure to emerge. The Cuvée AAA 2022 will reward attentive tasting now, but a few years’ cellaring will further refine its harmonious character.
