# La Vinhota (2024)

- **Producer:** Domaine Balansa
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carignan, Grenache Noir, Syrah
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, cherry, redcurrant, black pepper

## About this wine

Domaine Balansa is a family-run estate situated in the rugged, high-altitude hills of the Hautes-Corbières in the Languedoc region. Managed by Céline Peyre and Alexandre Gressent, the estate is fully committed to organic and biodynamic viticulture, holding Demeter certification. 'La Vinhota' is crafted to capture the vibrant, energetic, and fresh side of their schist-grown grapes, offering a highly drinkable and approachable style that departs from the historically heavy, highly extracted reds of the region.

## Interesting facts

- The estate's vineyards are located on steep, high-altitude schist slopes, which help maintain remarkable freshness in a warm Mediterranean climate.
- Domaine Balansa is Demeter-certified, practicing strict biodynamic farming to encourage biodiversity and soil health.
- La Vinhota is crafted as a 'vin de soif'—a highly refreshing, low-intervention red designed to be enjoyed young and slightly chilled.

## Food pairing

The bright acidity and low, soft tannins of this light-bodied red make it incredibly versatile. It cuts through the fat of charcuterie and pork while complementing earthy mushroom dishes and roasted vegetables without overpowering them. Serving it slightly chilled enhances its refreshing nature.

## Wine making process

The grapes for La Vinhota are harvested entirely by hand from old vines grown on steep schist terraces. In the cellar, the winemaking philosophy is strictly low-intervention. Spontaneous fermentation is carried out using only indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled concrete and stainless steel tanks. A short maceration period is employed to extract bright fruit flavors and soft, gentle tannins. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered, with minimal sulfur additions, preserving its raw, natural character.