# Château Vignelaure Rouge (2012)

- **Producer:** Château Vignelaure
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
- **Region:** Provence, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, blackberry, black cherry, mint, liquorice, vanilla, cedar, leather, tobacco, dried fruit, earth

## About this wine

Château Vignelaure Rouge 2012 is a red wine from the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence appellation in Provence, France. It is a blend primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon (around 65%) and Syrah (around 35%). The estate was founded in 1960 and is known for being an early adopter of Cabernet Sauvignon in the region. The vineyards are situated at high altitudes, between 350 and 480 meters above sea level, benefiting from a cooler microclimate. The current owners, Bengt and Mette Sundström, acquired the estate in 2007 and have focused on improving vineyard practices, leading to organic certification in 2018. The 2012 vintage is noted for its mature grapes and balanced profile, a result of favorable vintage conditions.

## Interesting facts

- Pioneering Cabernet Sauvignon in Provence.
- Vineyards at altitudes up to 480 meters.
- Certified organic since 2018.
- Aged 24 months in oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure and tannins complement the richness of red meats and game, while its fruit notes can harmonize with savory sauces. The acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to fatty dishes.

## Wine making process

Château Vignelaure Rouge 2012 is produced using a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 24 months in oak barrels, with a proportion of new oak used. The estate emphasizes low yields from its selected vineyard parcels. Organic farming practices are employed.