# Carignan Vieilles Vignes (2020)

- **Producer:** Abbotts & Delaunay
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carignan
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, strawberry, raspberry, violet, black cherry, chocolate, incense, tobacco, coffee, light peppery character

## About this wine

The Abbotts & Delaunay Carignan Vieilles Vignes 2020 is a red wine from the Languedoc IGP Pays d'Oc region of France. It is produced from 100% Carignan grapes, with a significant portion sourced from vines over 50 years old. The grapes are cultivated in various terroirs within the Languedoc, including areas near Narbonne, Minervois, and the cooler Corbières. The winery, Abbotts & Delaunay, was founded by Australian winemakers and later acquired by Laurent Delaunay, who instilled a Burgundian philosophy of elegance and respect for terroir. The current leader, Jeanne Delaunay, continues this vision, focusing on meticulous vineyard selection and restrained winemaking.

## Interesting facts

- Carignan vines over 50 years old contribute to the wine's depth.
- The wine blends grapes from Narbonne, Minervois, and Corbières.
- Winemaking blends whole-bunch fermentation with traditional macerations.
- A portion of the wine is aged in new oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and fine tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of grilled and roasted meats, with the tannins binding to proteins and softening on the palate. Herbal notes in the wine can echo seasonings like rosemary, while fruit characteristics can harmonize with fruit-based sauces or accompaniments. The wine's subtle spicy and roasted notes make it a good partner for dishes with similar flavor profiles, and its structure can stand up to richer desserts.

## Wine making process

The 2020 Abbotts & Delaunay Carignan Vieilles Vignes is made from 100% Carignan grapes. A dual fermentation approach is employed: one-third of the grapes are hand-picked and fermented as whole bunches to retain freshness and fruit character. The remaining two-thirds undergo traditional vinification with macerations lasting up to three weeks, which helps build structure and tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 6 to 8 months, with 80% of it maturing in barrels, some of which are new oak.