From the Southern Rhône, this is 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah from 30 year-old, biodynamically cultivated vines in calcareous/sandy soils. Grapes are hand-harvested, destemmed, and macerate for 4-5 weeks prior to pressing. Spontaneous fermentation and élevage in neutral tank. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, minimal added SO2.

At a Glance

• Origin: Southern Rhône Valley, France
• Varietal & Type: Syrah, Grenache
• Vintage: 2022
• ABV: 14%
• Vineyard Soil: Galets (round river stones), sand and clay
• USNW Classification: Natural

Tasting Notes & Pairing

• Profile: Plum, Rasberry, Baking spices, oregano
• Food Pairing: Lamb, stews, Mediterranean dishes
• Serving Temp: 60-65°F (Slightly below room temp)

About the Winemaker

Domaine La Ligière is situated in Beaumes de Venise, in southeastern France's Southern Rhône Valley, about 15 miles northeast of Avignon. The estate is owned by Philippe and Elisabeth Bernard, with land in the family since 1896 when it was a mixed-crop farm raising silkworms. In 2008, the couple started making their own wine after years of selling fruit to cooperatives.

The property's unique terroir led Maurice Bernard (Philippe's grandfather) to plant vines in the 1950s. Philippe's father Jacques developed the vineyard to 50 hectares. Today, Domaine La Ligière is a biodynamic and certified organic winery with 60 hectares across four appellations: Vacqueyras, Gigondas, Beaumes-de-Venise, and Muscat-Beaumes-de-Venise. Not far from the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range.

Farming & Cellar: Vines average 50 years old (up to 75 years on the oldest plot), planted on red clay with rolled pebbles at around 80m elevation. They're cultivated without fertilizer, weedkiller, or chemical treatment for over ten years. Soils are plowed regularly, fertilized with organic compost, and protected using sulfur, copper, plant infusions (nettle, horsetail, wicker), and biodynamic preparations. Harvest is manual. In the cellar, no yeasts are added and wines are bottled without fining or filtration.