Viniou Reviews
Domaine S Escaravailles’ Cuvée Les Antimagnes 2020 is a robust and expressive red wine hailing from the Côtes-du-Rhône AOC, situated within the famed Rhône Valley of France. This cuvée typically presents a classic blend dominated by Grenache, often complemented by Syrah and Mourvèdre, which is a hallmark style of the region. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm, dry growing season, resulting in grapes with excellent ripeness and concentration. The vinification often involves careful extraction to preserve the intense fruit while integrating subtle notes of the maturation, likely carried out in concrete or neutral oak to enhance the wine’s pure profile. In the glass, expect a deep ruby colour and aromas of ripe black cherries, blackberry, hints of garrigue (wild herbs), and a touch of black pepper and spice.
The Rhône Valley is a region shaped by its diverse soils—ranging from galets roulés (rounded stones) to limestone and sandy terraces—coupled with a Mediterranean climate marked by hot, dry summers and the cooling influence of the mistral wind. This unique combination fosters powerful yet balanced wines with a hallmark freshness. The area boasts a rich viticultural heritage, with Côtes-du-Rhône wines offering both accessibility and distinctive, sense-of-place character that reflects centuries of winemaking tradition.
Cuvée Les Antimagnes 2020’s ample fruit and spice make it a wonderful companion to hearty dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, beef daube, or roasted duck breast. Consider local Provençal cuisine, such as ratatouille, or an aubergine gratin, which complements the wine’s herbaceous undertones. Charcuterie and aged cheeses, particularly Tomme de Provence or Comté, also resonate with its structure.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-17°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will allow the wine’s aromatic complexity to unfold, softening the tannins and elevating both its fruit and savoury notes. This Cuvée is delicious now but possesses potential to evolve gracefully over the next several years.
