Viniou Reviews
Gérard Bertrand’s Cuvée Aigle Royal from 2022 is an exceptional red hailing from the Limoux area in Languedoc, France. Although Limoux is perhaps best known for its sparkling wines, this cuvée showcases the region’s growing prowess with reds, often made from a blend favouring Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and sometimes Malbec, shaped by the region’s unique terroir. Aigle Royal is vinified with meticulous attention to detail: careful selection of grapes, traditional fermentation, and thoughtful maturation in French oak barrels create a rich, elegant wine with deep ruby hues. The bouquet offers aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, subtle vanilla, and a touch of Mediterranean garrigue, underscored by silky tannins and a lingering, spicy finish.
Limoux, nestled in the western foothills of the Pyrenees, benefits from a cooler microclimate than much of the Languedoc, thanks to Atlantic influences that moderate the warmth of the Mediterranean. The region’s soils—composed of clay, limestone, and some sandstone—impart freshness and minerality to the wines, with Limoux reds reflecting both ripeness and finesse. Historically, this area has been a crossroads between Atlantic and Mediterranean cultures, which is evident in the diverse grape varieties and winemaking styles embraced here.
To complement the structure and depth of the Cuvée Aigle Royal, pair it with hearty dishes such as cassoulet, duck confit, or slow-braised beef. Mediterranean-inspired lamb with herbs or roasted root vegetables would also be ideal. For a local touch, a platter of aged Occitan cheeses such as Pélardon or Saint-Nectaire would highlight the wine’s complexity.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C to allow its aromas to fully blossom and its tannins to soften. Decanting for an hour is highly recommended to let the wine open up and reveal its layered character. This cuvée has very good ageing potential, but it can certainly be appreciated now if you prefer vibrancy and fresh fruit character.
