Matthieu Dumarcher “Vin Rouge” Vin de France ’20

Matthieu Dumarcher is pretty much a one-man show. He started his small winery in the village of La Baume de Transit, because in his search for old-vine vineyards that he could afford, this turned out to be the place. His grandmother happened to be from the area, and so it seemed meant to be. He purchased four hectares of vineyards from retiring farmers, who owned fantastic parcels of old-vine Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah. Today, he produces his wines from a total of five hectares.

The 2020 “‘Vin Rouge”is a blend of Grenache and Carignan from 50-year-old vines, along with Syrah from 20-year-old vines. All the vines are farmed organically. The grapes are picked by hand, with further selection made on a sorting table. Fermentation is in tank, with aging for 13 months in old oak barrels as well as vats. Beautiful kirsch and spice aromas lead into a medium-bodied palate with black and red fruits, notes of coffee, and a long, balanced finish. The Dumarcher wines always have incredible extract, without seeming heavy or liqueur-like. Try it with anything grilled or seared.