# Cassagne et Vitailles Nimalaya (2022)

- **Producer:** Cassagne et Vitailles
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carignan
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €43
- **Vegan:** No
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, red cherry, liquorice, mocha, chocolate, coffee, vanilla, cloves, dried fruit, earth, leather

## About this wine

The 'Nimalaya' wine from Cassagne et Vitailles is a 100% Carignan produced in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France. It is made from old vines planted in 1954, a testament to the region's viticultural heritage. The wine's name, 'Nimalaya,' is a personal tribute to the four individuals who were present at the inception of Domaine Cassagne et Vitailles, symbolizing a shared vision and the culmination of years of dedication to winemaking. The estate, founded by friends Matthieu Rollin and Nicolas Seffusatti, is committed to achieving balance and respecting the terroir, focusing on quality and a close connection with nature.

## Interesting facts

- Named after the four founders: Nicolas, Matthieu, Paula, and Yannick.
- Made from Carignan vines planted in 1954.
- Represents nearly 60 years of viticultural history.
- Produced in limited quantities, around 3000 bottles annually.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. The spicy notes in the wine can echo or contrast with the flavors of herbs and spices in the dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience. Acidity helps to cut through the fattiness of richer meats.

## Wine making process

The 'Nimalaya' wine is produced using 100% old-vine Carignan. The grapes are fermented slowly over 40-45 days in concrete eggs or small stainless steel vats, with 50% of the grapes fermented as whole clusters. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an aging period of 6-8 months in concrete eggs. The estate practices organic and biodynamic viticulture, including controlled grassing and manual vineyard work, with a commitment to low yields. The 2022 harvest was conducted late to ensure grape ripeness.