Val de l’Ours Rouge Classique 2023

Winery Background and History

Val de l’Ours is a wine label under Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), associated with the estate Domaine d’Aussières in southern France’s Languedoc region. The name “Val de l’Ours” (Valley of the Bear) evokes the wild, rugged landscapes of the hills near the Mediterranean, historically inhabited by brown bears. Lafite’s involvement reflects their ambition to invest in and elevate Languedoc terroirs, combining local grape diversity, careful vineyard selection, and Rothschild winemaking expertise. Over time the project has gained recognition for bringing precision and quality to a region often known for volume.

Producer and Wine Maker

The wine is vinified by the team at Domaine d’Aussières under Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). This group oversees all stages from vineyard to bottle, aiming to express the local terroir while leveraging the technical and quality standards of the Rothschild organization. Their philosophy blends respect for Mediterranean varietals with disciplined cellar practices: controlled fermentations, moderate oak integration, and blending to optimize balance, depth, and drinkability.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Vineyards lie in the hills behind the Mediterranean coast in the Languedoc (Pays d’Oc / IGP), with shallow, stony hillslopes and some deeper sandy soils on plains. The climate is Mediterranean — hot, dry summers; mild winters; strong sun exposure; cooling influences from sea breezes mitigate heat. The rocky soils provide drainage and stress, concentrating flavors. Low yields are maintained to enhance grape quality. The terroir encourages aromatic intensity and structural depth in the blends.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are harvested at maturity and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve fruit purity while allowing optimal extraction. After fermentation and malolactic conversion, the wine is aged (likely in tanks or neutral to lightly toasted barrels) for a moderate period to integrate structure without heavy oak dominance. The blending phase combines multiple red varietals to balance aromatics, body, and softness before final bottling and stabilization.

Tasting Notes

Color: deep ruby with plum glints. The nose is generous, showing red and black fruits (raspberry, blackcurrant), hints of sweet spice, garrigue herbs (thyme, rosemary), and subtle licorice. On the palate the attack is soft and velvety; mid palate develops complexity of wild berries, a touch of dark cherry, and a savory edge. Tannins are fine and well-integrated, with a lingering finish accented by nuance of spices and gentle earthiness. From the official site: “soft and velvety attack … aromatic complexity … wild berries and garrigue.” 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs with Mediterranean and Provencal dishes: roast lamb with herbs, grilled pork, duck breast, ratatouille, or dishes with olives, fennel, or rosemary. Also works with charcuterie, Provençal stews, roasted vegetables, and aged medium cheeses (Cantal, Pecorino, Manchego). For a richer match, consider beef short ribs or moussaka.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C in a large Bordeaux / Rhone-blend glass to allow aromatics to open. A decant of 30 minutes may help soften tertiary layers and release bouquet. Pour gently, avoiding agitation of any suspended particles. Avoid overcooling — too cold will mute its aromatic character.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store horizontally in a cellar at ~12–15 °C, humidity ~60–70%, dark and stable. The 2023 vintage is relatively young; under good cellaring it may evolve positively over 5–8 years, with tertiary notes (dried herbs, leather, forest floor) emerging and tannins softening. After opening, re-cork and consume within 2–3 days, perhaps with inert gas protection.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

According to the estate, the 2023 blend may include:

Syrah 30%

Grenache noir 20%

Cabernet Sauvignon 10%

Marselan 9%

Carignan 8%

Merlot 7%

Cabernet Franc 6%

Mourvèdre 5%

Alicante-Henri-Bouschet 4%

Petit Verdot 1% 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%