Matassa Coume de l’Olla 2024

Coume de l'Olla is made by Domaine Matassa in the Languedoc-Roussillon, a winery founded in 2001 by Tom Lubbe, a New Zealander raised in South Africa. The vines are farmed organically and biodynamically at over 450 metres, where altitude brings cooler nights and a wide day-to-night temperature swing that preserves freshness and acidity in a warm southern region. Yields are very low, around 3,500 kilos per hectare, and the grapes are fermented with native yeasts and very little added sulphur. The blend is mostly Grenache and Grenache Gris with a little Macabeo, and the grey-skinned Grenache Gris and white Macabeo lighten both colour and weight, giving a pale, juicy red. At 11 percent this is a low alcohol, thirst-quenching style. The colour is a bright, light red. The nose shows fresh red berries, red cherry and red currant, with dried herbs and a stony, mineral note. The palate is light bodied and lively, with very soft tannins, bright acidity and a fresh, savoury finish. Serve at 13 to 14 degrees, and chill it lightly in summer. It suits charcuterie, poultry and lighter dishes.