# Le Vallon Red Blend (NV)

- **Producer:** Domaine Milan
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Nielluccio
- **Region:** Provence, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, blackcurrant, black pepper, fennel

## About this wine

Domaine Milan is situated in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in the Alpilles. Managed by Henri Milan and his son Théophile, the estate famously declassified its wines from the AOC Baux-de-Provence to Vin de France in 2007, seeking full creative independence. Inspired by soil microbiologist Claude Bourguignon, the domain focuses on organic and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that emphasize elegance, freshness, and pure terroir expression from unique limestone scree and blue marl soils.

## Interesting facts

- In 2007, Domaine Milan declassified its portfolio to Vin de France to avoid restrictive AOC regulations.
- All grape varieties are co-fermented together at harvest rather than blended after aging.
- Soil scientist Claude Bourguignon helped uncover the estate's exceptional blue marl soils in 1996.

## Food pairing

The elevated freshness, fine tannin structure, and Mediterranean herbal character of Le Vallon make it an outstanding companion for savory roasted meats and garrigue-infused dishes. The vibrant fruit profile balances rich charcuterie and medium-aged cheeses seamlessly without feeling heavy.

## Wine making process

The fruit is organically grown and harvested by hand from 3-hectare plots. Uniquely, the grape varieties are co-fermented as whole clusters using indigenous yeasts in concrete vats. Maceration is kept short at just five days, with racking performed mid-fermentation to yield smooth and silky tannins. The wine ages for up to 12 months in concrete vats and neutral oak casks before bottling without fining, filtration, or added sulfur.