Wines Languedoc Domaine S Trinités - Le Portail - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Domaine S Trinités’ 2023 Cuvée Le Portail is a red wine from the Languedoc AOC, a region renowned for its expressive and sun-drenched wines. The blend that makes up Le Portail typically features classic southern grape varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, although local winemaking tradition often leaves room for the inclusion of Carignan or Cinsault as well. The 2023 vintage, benefiting from a generous Mediterranean climate, presents ripe berries, black cherries, and subtle floral notes on the nose, complemented by a gentle hint of spice and garrigue that is so characteristic of the region. The palate is full-bodied but remains vibrant, thanks to both careful selection of grapes and precise vinification that likely includes a mix of traditional fermentation and ageing in vats to preserve fruit purity and freshness.

Languedoc, stretching along France’s southern coast, is famed for its varied vineyards and dynamic viticultural history. The region’s warm, dry climate and ample sunshine allow grapes to reach optimal ripeness, producing bold reds with plush fruit and a herby undertone. Soils in this area range from limestone and shale to alluvial gravel, which impart further complexity and structure to the wines. Once considered more a source of bulk production, the Languedoc has, over recent decades, emerged as a territory of quality-conscious domains such as Domaine S Trinités, combining tradition and innovation.

Pair this generous Languedoc rouge with robust fare: consider grilled lamb chops with rosemary, duck breast with olives, or a classic southern French cassoulet. Local goat’s cheeses or a rustic ratatouille would underscore the wine’s savoury dimension, while a simple steak frites would also prove a solid match, allowing the wine’s generous fruit and subtle tannins to shine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Cuvée Le Portail 2023 slightly cool, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can help uncork its aromatic profile, making for a rewarding tasting experience whether enjoyed on its own or alongside good food.