Domaine Astruc was acquired by Jean-Claude Mas in 2002 and has since become an established name among wine lovers. He runs the winery with respectful gratitude. The winery is located in Limoux, where it benefits from both Atlantic influences and the Pyrenees. Limoux is also the region where, according to modern history, the first sparkling wine in France was made. The soil consists of gravel and calcareous marl, and the grapes enjoy a cooler microclimate, resulting in fresh wines of exceptional elegance and finesse. The vineyards for this wine face south to fully enjoy the sun.
Domaine Astruc's Carignan vineyards lie at the foot of the Pyrenees, making this area considerably cooler than the rest of the Languedoc region. This results in wines that offer refinement and elegance. The Carignan grapes come from very old vines (hence the Vieilles Vignes, or old vines, classification). The yields from these vines are very low.
After harvest, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. Seventy percent of the wine is then aged in American oak (a mix of new, one-, and two-year-old barrels) and the remaining thirty percent is aged in French oak (one- and two-year-old) for six months.
This wine is deep purple in color with a ruby hue and has aromas of cocoa and blackcurrant followed by hints of strawberry and toast. The palate is juicy and very elegant, with abundant black and red fruit. At the back of the throat, it offers warm notes of fresh plums, a light spice, and a hint of vanilla. Excellent with various types of red meat, game, and cheeses.
