# Le Clotagnas La Peyne (2024)

- **Producer:** Domaine Le Clotagnas
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cinsault
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €19
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, cherry, plum, rose, violet, herbaceous

## About this wine

Domaine Le Clotagnas represents the personal winemaking project of vigneron Cédric Benoit, who left a corporate career to assemble small vineyard parcels around the high-elevation village of Vailhan in the Hérault department of the Languedoc. Working solo on just 3.5 hectares of land, Benoit launched his debut vintage to showcase the distinctive cool microclimates of the region. The cuvée name 'La Peyne' pays homage to the local river that flows through the Vailhan valley.

## Interesting facts

- 2024 marks the debut vintage for both Domaine Le Clotagnas and winemaker Cédric Benoit.
- The wine is named after the Peyne River, which flows through the high-altitude valley of Vailhan.
- Malolactic fermentation is intentionally prevented to preserve bright, crisp natural acidity.
- Total winery production across all cuvées is limited to roughly 4,000 bottles per year.

## Food pairing

With its lighter body, vibrant natural acidity, and supple tannins, this fresh Cinsault pairs wonderfully with lighter meats, roasted poultry, and Mediterranean dishes. The elevated acidity cuts through charcuterie and herbal preparations without overwhelming delicate food textures.

## Wine making process

Crafted as a pure 100% Cinsault single-varietal wine, La Peyne is harvested entirely by hand into small crates to safeguard cluster integrity. Vinification for the debut vintage took place in collaboration with neighboring Domaine Cassagne et Vitailles. Fermentation occurs exclusively in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with traditional gentle extraction. Malolactic fermentation is intentionally prevented to preserve natural acidity and tension. The wine receives zero oak contact and matures for six months in stainless steel before bottling.