Wines Unspecified Cave De Roquebrun - Éclats de Schistes - 2019

Cave de Roquebrun’s 2019 Cuvée Éclats de Schistes is a vibrant red wine crafted in the heart of the Languedoc region in southern France. The blend is typical of the area, likely featuring Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, though the exact proportion may vary, creating a harmonious yet expressive wine. The name “Éclats de Schistes” references the region’s distinctive schist soils, which impart a unique minerality and finesse. The 2019 vintage benefited from a warm, dry growing season, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness while preserving freshness. Vinification emphasises gentle extraction to preserve fruit character and structure, resulting in a wine of both depth and approachability, with notes of ripe black fruits, garrigue, subtle spice, and a mineral backbone.

The Languedoc is renowned for its diverse terroirs and innovative winemaking. The schist slopes surrounding Roquebrun, perched above the Orb river, offer exceptional drainage and heat retention, encouraging profound ripeness and concentration in the wines. The Mediterranean climate provides long hours of sunshine moderated by cool breezes from the nearby mountains, yielding wines with robust character yet surprising balance. The region’s winemaking history stretches back to Roman times, but in recent decades a surge in quality-focused cooperatives and growers like Cave de Roquebrun have revitalised its reputation, producing wines celebrated for their personality and value.

This robust red pairs delightfully with richly flavoured dishes. Consider grilled lamb with rosemary, confit duck, or beef stew with olives and herbes de Provence. Regional pairings such as cassoulet or a traditional gardiane de taureau (bull stew) from nearby Camargue will accentuate the wine’s earthy complexity and savoury notes. Mature cheeses like Tomme de Brebis are equally at home alongside its structure and aromatics.

For optimal enjoyment, serve at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help open up its bouquet and soften the tannins, revealing layers of fruit and spice. The 2019 Cuvée Éclats de Schistes is ready to drink now but can also develop further complexity with a few years in the cellar.