Wines Saint-Chinian Cave de Roquebrun - Lune de Schiste - 2023

Cuvée Lune de Schiste 2023 from the Cave de Roquebrun is a fine red wine representative of the Saint-Chinian appellation in Languedoc, southern France. Crafted primarily from traditional Mediterranean grape varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, this cuvée expresses the unique character of its schist-rich terroir. The 2023 vintage is likely to offer generous aromas of ripe red and black fruits, intertwined with subtle hints of garrigue, spices, and earthy minerality imparted by the local soils. The vinification process favours gentle extraction to preserve both the aromatic freshness and the supple structure typical of the estate’s style, resulting in a wine that balances fruitiness and complexity while maintaining an approachable profile in its youth.

The Languedoc region has a long-standing history as one of France’s most dynamic wine-producing areas. Saint-Chinian, located in the foothills of the Massif Central, benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate tempered by cooling winds, which allows the grapes to ripen fully while retaining freshness. The vineyards sit on ancient schist soils, which are particularly well-suited to the cultivation of Syrah and Grenache, providing excellent drainage and imparting a distinctive mineral nuance to the wines. The region’s diverse microclimates and rich history of viticulture—tracing back to Roman times—contribute to the development of wines with authentic regional character and impressive ageing potential.

For food pairings, the Lune de Schiste will shine alongside grilled lamb chops with herbes de Provence, duck breast with cherry sauce, or a hearty cassoulet, a classic dish of the southwestern region. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean vegetable tian or aged local cheeses such as Roquefort or Tomme des Pyrénées.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Saint-Chinian at a temperature between 16-18°C. Decant the wine for half an hour if possible to allow the aromatics to fully unfurl. This will reveal its delightful balance of fruit, spice, and mineral notes, offering a true taste of the Languedoc’s rugged elegance.