# Château des Nages Vieilles Vignes (2022)

- **Producer:** Vignoble Michel Gassier
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, violet, blackberry, red plum, red cherry, strawberry, cloves, coffee, vanilla, chocolate

## About this wine

Château des Nages Vieilles Vignes is a red wine from Vignoble Michel Gassier, produced in the Costières de Nîmes appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley. The wine is made from old vines, a designation that signifies mature grapevines known for producing grapes with enhanced concentration and complexity. The Gassier family estate is rooted in this region, dedicated to showcasing the distinct character of their terroir. The Costières de Nîmes appellation is situated in a Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine and is characterized by its distinctive stony soils, contributing to the unique profile of the wines grown there.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Château des Nages' evokes the historical presence of hunting grounds on the estate.
- Costières de Nîmes is one of the most southerly appellations in the Rhône Valley.
- Old vines (Vieilles Vignes) often have deeper root systems, accessing more complex soil nutrients.
- The stony soils of the region help retain heat, aiding grape ripening.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and polished tannins are well-suited to complement the protein in dishes like lamb and pork, creating a balanced mouthfeel. The herbal and spicy notes in the wine can echo or enhance similar flavors in the food, such as rosemary or Mediterranean herbs. Its fruit-forward character can also provide a pleasant contrast to richer, savory dishes.

## Wine making process

The production of Château des Nages Vieilles Vignes involves the careful selection of grapes from old vines. Following harvest, the grapes undergo maceration to extract color, flavor, and tannins. Fermentation, likely conducted using traditional methods with controlled temperatures, converts sugars into alcohol. The wine is then aged, with evidence of oak influence, which contributes to its complexity and structure. This process aims to capture the essence of the Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah varietals within the context of the Costières de Nîmes terroir.