Maxime-François Laurent Il Fait Soif 2024

Maxime-François Laurent Il Fait Soif is a natural red Côtes du Rhône blending Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, made by Maxime-François Laurent of Domaine Gramenon. He began this small project in 2006 and now farms around six hectares in Montbrison and Valréas under biodynamic principles, producing certified organic wines with minimal intervention since 2010. The wines come from the warm southern Rhône, where Grenache leads for ripe red fruit and soft tannin, Cinsault adds lift and freshness, and Syrah brings a peppery, darker edge. This bottling is made in a deliberately light, drinkable style, with no oak ageing and a low intervention approach using native yeast, which keeps the focus on bright, primary fruit. The name translates as it is thirsty weather, and the wine lives up to it at a fresh 13.5 percent. Expect a bright, vivid red, a perfumed nose of red berries, cherry and plum with pepper and a floral lift, and a juicy, supple palate with soft tannin, lively acidity and a clean finish. Serve lightly chilled at 13 to 15 degrees with charcuterie, grilled pork or simple Mediterranean dishes.