VDF ”L’Insoumis du Village” (Red) 2017

This is a blend of up to ten grapes including Cabernet Franc, Côt, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Gris, Pineau d’Aunis and Gascon. It is a powerful, juicy, peppery wine with both red and black fruits, soft tannins and chocolate cherry on finish!

Reynald Héaulé is known for his passion for rare and native grapes and his expertise in blending them into cuvées to showcase their potential. He refers to his blending process as cooking and proudly says, “Le difference is la cuisine.” With this blend, he works with a range of up to ten grapes: Cabernet Franc, Côt, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Gris, and Pineau d’Aunis. He also includes some hybrids and some Gascon (Mondeuse Noire), an inky, spicy grape he is single-handedly reviving in the region. Each year he adjusts the recipe for which grapes are used and the percentages used. He also varies the point in the winemaking process when they are blended – some are pressed together, others ferment together and some are blended just before bottling.

Vinification: Ten year-old vines grown on quartz, limestone and clay soils are hand-harvested and macerated for fifteen days before pressing. Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. Blending of varieties occurs throughout the winemaking process. Final blend aged in old oak barrels for 30 months.

Match it with: Grilled meats, carbonara, vegetables with heavy sauces.