Wines Upper Aude Valley Domaine Grand Cres - Cressaïa - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Grand Cres’s 2017 Cuvée Cressaïa Haute Vallée de l’Aude is a carefully crafted red wine from the Languedoc region. While the precise blend is not specified, reds from this area traditionally feature varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah or Grenache, often blended to achieve harmony and complexity. The 2017 vintage saw favourable growing conditions, yielding grapes of excellent concentration. The Haute Vallée de l’Aude IGP is characterised by its slightly cooler, elevated sites compared to the broader Languedoc, imparting finesse and a certain freshness to the wines. Grapes here benefit from large diurnal temperature shifts, which add aromatic complexity and preserve acidity. Winemaking at Domaine Grand Cres typically involves gentle extraction, possible maturation in French oak, and a focus on balancing rich fruit with savoury nuances, resulting in a wine that is both expressive and elegant.

The Languedoc is among France’s most dynamic wine regions, stretching from the Mediterranean coast into the foothills of the Pyrenees. The Haute Vallée de l’Aude subregion is noteworthy for its varied microclimates and a mosaic of clay-limestone and alluvial soils, which lend a distinct mineral quality to the wines. The region boasts a long history of viticulture, with modern producers focusing on quality and expressing the diversity of the terroir. This area’s slightly increased rainfall and cooler temperatures compared to the Languedoc plains contribute to wines that are structured and vibrant.

For food pairings, the structure and depth of the Cuvée Cressaïa makes it a wonderful companion for regional dishes such as cassoulet or duck confit, which complement its robust character. Provencal lamb stew or grilled beef, perhaps with a tapenade or herbes de Provence, would also work beautifully. Milder hard cheeses, such as Cantal or Comté, allow the wine’s fruit and spice to shine.

Serve Domaine Grand Cres Cuvée Cressaïa 2017 at 16-18°C. To fully appreciate its complexity, allow the wine to open in the glass or consider decanting for thirty minutes. This will reveal the subtle floral, red berry, and spice notes that typify both the cuvée and the character of the Haute Vallée de l’Aude.