Les Enfants Sauvages Enfant Sauvage 2022

Les Enfants Sauvages was founded by a German couple who bought an eight-hectare estate in Roussillon, in the far south of France, with calcareous clay soils surrounded by olive, almond and fig trees and wild garrigue scrub. They farm naturally with a high level of respect for the land, and the vineyards sit only about five kilometres from the Mediterranean. The wine blends Carignan, Grenache and Mourvèdre, the classic grapes of the region, grown under strong sun that pushes ripeness while the coastal influence and limestone soils preserve some freshness. Carignan brings dark fruit and grip, Grenache adds sweet red berries and warmth, and Mourvèdre contributes structure and a savoury, gamey edge. Natural vinification with the grapes' own yeasts and ageing in wood keeps the focus on fruit and the herbal garrigue character of the surroundings. The wine is deep ruby, with a nose of dark berries, plum, dried herbs, black pepper, liquorice and a hint of olive and warm earth. The palate is full and warming, with ripe tannins and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 17 degrees with a decant. It suits roast lamb, beef and game.