# Château Estanilles Sous Les Rocs (2019)

- **Producer:** Château des Estanilles
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €24
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cassis, liquorice, blackberry, red cherry, black cherry, black pepper, coffee, cloves, vanilla, chocolate, tobacco, leather, earth

## About this wine

Château Estanilles Sous Les Rocs is a red wine from the AOC Faugères in Languedoc-Roussillon, France, produced by Château des Estanilles. The wine's name, 'Sous Les Rocs,' meaning 'under the rocks,' highlights its vineyard's location beneath rocky outcrops, a characteristic tied to its unique terroir. The estate is a pioneer in the Faugères appellation, emphasizing organic viticulture and sustainable practices to preserve the health of its ancient schist soils. This approach aims to produce wines that reflect the distinctiveness of their origin.

## Interesting facts

- 'Sous Les Rocs' translates to 'under the rocks'.
- The vineyard is situated on ancient schist soils.
- The wine is certified organic by ECOCERT SAS.
- It's considered a 'grande cuvée' from the estate.

## Food pairing

The full body and firm tannins of this wine stand up well to rich, protein-heavy dishes. The wine's spice notes can complement herbs and earthy flavors in food, while its fruit character can be enhanced by slightly sweet sauces or accompaniments.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Château Estanilles Sous Les Rocs begins with hand-harvesting and meticulous sorting of the grapes. Each variety—Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre—is vinified separately after destemming and crushing. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 18 months in a mix of foudres, demi-muids, and barriques. This approach allows for the development of complexity and integration of flavors before the final blend is created.