Domaine Lafage La Retro 1 Liter 2024

Domaine Lafage works in Roussillon, in the far south of France where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean. This organic red blends Cariñena, Syrah and Garnacha from the warm, dry Côtes Catalanes, where schist and clay soils and low rainfall keep yields modest and concentrate flavour in the fruit. Jean-Marc Lafage built La Retro to recover the lighter, juicier style his father and grandfather made for the household table, picking earlier and handling the wine gently to keep alcohol low at 12.5 per cent and the fruit fresh. There is little or no oak, so the emphasis stays on bright primary fruit rather than barrel character. The colour is a vivid purple. The nose leads with blueberry and blackberry over a lift of black pepper and dried Mediterranean herbs, while the palate is supple and easy, with soft tannins and a clean savoury finish. The one litre bottle suits a wine made for the table and everyday drinking. Serve lightly chilled at around 14 degrees, which suits its low alcohol and fresh character. Good with roast chicken, grilled pork or a plate of charcuterie.