Wines Cairanne Vignobles & Compagnie - Les Terrasses de l'Aygues - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Vignobles & Compagnie’s “Les Terrasses de l'Aygues” 2018 is a red wine from the Cairanne appellation, located in the southern part of the Rhône Valley. This cuvée is typically crafted from the classic local blend combining Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, grapes renowned for their aromatic complexity and excellent aging potential. The 2018 vintage enjoyed a balanced growing season, with enough sunshine to promote ripeness but without excessive heat. The careful vinification often employed here includes destemming and temperature-controlled fermentation, followed by a period of maturation in tanks or large oak foudres, which helps preserve the vibrant fruit while imparting subtle spicy undertones.

Cairanne lies at the heart of the southern Rhône, a region celebrated for its intricate tapestry of terroirs. The soils in this area are particularly marked by alluvial terraces with clay-limestone compositions over river stones, fostering deep-rooted vines and low yields. This terroir gives Cairanne wines their distinct combination of power and finesse. The Mediterranean climate ensures hot, dry summers and gentle winters, with the famous Mistral wind helping maintain healthy grapes. Historically, the Rhône Valley is one of France’s oldest winegrowing areas, with a tradition dating back to Roman times, and Cairanne itself elevated to cru status thanks to its consistent quality.

This richly textured wine calls for food pairings that complement its boldness and complexity. Think of hearty Provençal dishes such as lamb stew with herbs (daube provençale), grilled duck breast with figs, or a simple yet flavorful ratatouille. Cheese lovers will appreciate its affinity with aged Comté or a mature goat cheese from the region. If you prefer something more international, try it with slow-cooked barbecue meats or a classic mushroom risotto.

For ideal tasting, serve Les Terrasses de l'Aygues at 16-18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes before serving will harmonize its tannins and open up its bouquet of dark berries, dried herbs, and peppery notes. Enjoy this wine now for its youthful vigour or cellar it for a few more years to discover additional layers of complexity.