2023 Pierre Amadieu Cairanne Les Hautes Rives

Nestled on the hillsides overlooking the Aygues River, the vines of Les Hautes Rives are bordered by striking cliffs of blue marl and fine Miocene sands. Situated at an altitude of 200 metres, the vineyard benefits from light marl soils scattered with pebbles — a setting that lends finesse and freshness to the wine.

The blend comprises 60% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre and 15% Syrah. The hand-harvested grapes are vinified with minimal intervention to preserve the wine’s natural fruit character and elegance. Fermentation takes place over 14 days in stainless steel vats and concrete tanks, with gentle pumping over and délestage (rack and return). The wine is aged exclusively in tank to retain purity of fruit.

Charming and full-flavoured, this red Cairanne reveals generous aromas of blackberry, cherry, and ripe plum. With time in the glass, it unfurls notes of warm spice, garrigue herbs, and forest floor. The palate is rounded and balanced, supported by fine tannins and a lovely freshness on the finish. – The Amadieu family

Generous forest-berry, licorice and dry-earth aromas fill out the full-bodied but nicely balanced palate of this structured and well-rounded wine. Velvety tannins gently build in the long, moderately dry finish. Grenache and mourvedre with a touch of syrah from high-altitude vineyards on limestone soil. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. 92 points. Stuart Pigott, jamessuckling.com Apr 2025