Cyril & Jean-Mi, VDF Rouge - France, 2023
Fast Facts:
Winemaker(s): Cyril & Jean-Michel
Region: Gard -> Languedoc -> France
Varietal(s): Cabernet Sauvignon & Syrah
Terroir: Sandy clay and limestone soils
Serving Temp: 60-65°F
A beautiful collab! Cyril runs a sweet organic estate in Languedoc (including the vineyards that supply fruit for Martin Texier's cult-favorite Boutanche project. You know, the big bottles with a cute possum on it). His buddy Jean-Michel runs a cave cooperative called Les Vignerons de Quissac, an old-school vignerons-owned operation that's been around forever.
Jean-Michel had been getting curious about natural winemaking, and Cyril had the vineyards and the know-how. So they teamed up to make simple, delicious, no-fuss Vin de France labeled wine that is good for all occasions. A match made in heaven.
For this cutie, they fermented 100 hectoliters each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah separately in cement tanks for 10-11 days, completely sans soufre! Then they blended everything in cement and let it settle in stainless steel, resulting in this juicy, vibrant, yet structured and classic-ish red.
Why'd we pick it?
These guys grow grapes for one of the most respected natural winemakers in France, which I find lovely. Plus, a fresh take on a very classic southern France Cabernet-Syrah blend, which is especially a joy in the dead of Winter with just enough depth to be fitting, but fresh enough to lift the spirits.
Field Notes
- Tastes like: Crushed raspberries and red currants with a touch of earth. Some fresh herbs, and a lovely light tannic grip that keeps everything lively.
- Serve it however you'd like! Put a lil' chill on it, or swig it room temp.
- Food Pairings: Midweek beef meatballs! Roasted beets with lemony lentils and herbs. Or get your burger skills on, add some bleu cheese, raw red onion and fresh romaine.
