Alain Grignon Reserve Carignan Vieilles Vignes, France 2023/24

This wine is a best selling southern french red from their 80-90 year old vine reserve. The winemaker, Frederic Garrabou, comes from the small village of Limoux, situated amidst the Languedoc vineyards. His father and both his grandfathers were vine growers, and he grew up immersed in the vineyards, assisting his father from a young age. The cultivation of vines has always captivated him, as he believes that the finest wines are crafted in the vineyard. Carignan is focused on quality and it’s made using grapes from at least fifty-year-old vines, as referred to by the term ‘Vielles Vignes’ – some are even a hundred years old. Expect an abundance of red fruit flavours, including dried cranberry and raspberry with vanilla and baking spices. Try serving with grilled meats, spaghetti Bolognese or a cheese platter.