Altan d’Aussières 2021

Winery Background and History

Domaine d’Aussières is a historic estate located in the Corbières appellation of the Languedoc region in southern France. Dating back to Roman times, the estate has a rich viticultural heritage. In 1999, it was acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), who undertook extensive renovations to restore the vineyards and winemaking facilities. The estate now combines traditional winemaking practices with modern techniques to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Producer and Winemaker

Altan d’Aussières is produced by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) at Domaine d’Aussières. The winemaking team is dedicated to crafting wines that express the character of the Corbières terroir. They focus on sustainable viticulture and meticulous vineyard management to ensure the highest quality grapes. The winemaking process emphasizes the preservation of fruit purity and the expression of varietal characteristics.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Domaine d’Aussières are situated near the Mediterranean Sea, benefiting from the cooling sea breezes known locally as “Altan.” These breezes help to moderate the warm Mediterranean climate, allowing for a longer growing season and the development of complex flavors in the grapes. The soils are a mix of marl and sandstone, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral character of the wines. The combination of climate and soil creates an ideal environment for cultivating Mediterranean grape varieties.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 vintage of Altan d’Aussières was crafted using a blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Approximately 40% of the wine underwent carbonic maceration, enhancing its aromatic profile and contributing to a creamy, velvety texture. The remaining portion was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and purity of the fruit. The wine was aged for 6 to 8 months in tank, followed by an additional 6 months in bottle before release, allowing the flavors to harmonize and develop complexity.

Tasting Notes

Altan d’Aussières 2021 exhibits a deep garnet color. The nose is expressive, with aromas of dark cherries, roasted meat, dried herbs, mushrooms, and baking spices. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins, offering flavors of ripe red fruits, licorice, and a hint of underbrush. The wine is well-balanced, with a warm, sweet character and a long, mineral-driven finish. It showcases the complexity and elegance characteristic of the Corbières appellation.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted poultry, and hearty stews. Its robust structure and complex flavors complement dishes like lamb tagine, beef bourguignon, or mushroom risotto. The wine’s herbal notes also make it an excellent match for Mediterranean cuisine featuring rosemary, thyme, and sage. For cheese pairings, consider aged cheeses such as Comté or Manchego.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, decant Altan d’Aussières 2021 for 30 minutes before serving. Serve at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large Bordeaux-style glasses to enhance its aromatic profile and allow the wine to express its full character. This wine is ready to enjoy now but can also benefit from short-term aging.

Storage and Aging Potential

Altan d’Aussières 2021 is crafted for immediate enjoyment but possesses the structure to age gracefully for 3 to 5 years. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine will develop additional complexity, with softened tannins and evolved tertiary aromas, enhancing its overall depth and character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Carignan: 37%

• Grenache Noir: 36%

• Syrah: 20%

• Mourvèdre: 7%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.0%

Scores

• James Suckling: 92 points