Matthieu Dumarcher “Les Vaillants” Vin de France ’20

“Les Vaillants” is the most age-worthy and complex wine that Matthieu produces. In 2020 he made just 1,690 bottles of it—that's only 140 cases! The wine is composed of 80% Grenache, from vines that are more than 70 years old, and 20% Carignan, from 30-year-old vines. The yields are tiny, around 15 hl/ha. Fermentation is carried out with native yeasts and whole bunches in stainless steel vats, and élevage lasts about 14 months in used barrels.

Aromatically the wine exudes personality, with notes of blue and red berries and plums, garrigue, violet pastilles, cured meat, and olives. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied, rich yet balanced, with fine-grained tannins and moderate acidity, and a long finish. Pair it with brisket, lamb burgers, or a hearty stew.