# Les Sardines Grenache Gris (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine Lafage
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache Gris
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €10
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, peach, apricot, lemon, grapefruit, cream

## About this wine

Les Sardines Grenache Gris is a vibrant tribute to the traditional Catalan fishermen of the Roussillon region. Produced by the dynamic seventh-generation winemaking couple Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage of Domaine Lafage, this wine captures the maritime spirit of the Mediterranean coast. The name and playful label evoke the historic practice of beach seine fishing, where the daily catch was shared equally among the crew and villagers over simple, refreshing local wines. Sourced from vineyards bordering the sea, this wine reflects the unique terroir of clay, limestone, and schist soils, offering a pure expression of the rare Grenache Gris grape.

## Interesting facts

- The wine's label pays tribute to the traditional Catalan fishermen who shared their daily catch on the beach with simple, fresh local wines.
- Domaine Lafage uses regenerative agriculture, including biochar and cover crops, to combat drought in their coastal vineyards.
- Grenache Gris is a rare pink-skinned mutation of Grenache, prized in Roussillon for its mineral tension and stone fruit characters.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and distinct sea-breeze salinity of this Grenache Gris make it a natural partner for fresh seafood and shellfish. The wine's crispness cuts through the richness of grilled fish, while its mineral profile mirrors the briny flavors of oysters and mussels. Light, fresh cheeses and citrus-dressed salads also complement its vibrant stone fruit and citrus notes without overpowering its delicate body.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process is designed to preserve the natural acidity and aromatic freshness of the Grenache Gris grape. Grapes are harvested exceptionally early in the season to maintain low alcohol and high tension. Following a gentle direct pressing, the juice undergoes cool fermentation at 16°C in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged on its fine lees (Feinhefe) for four months, which enhances the texture and mouthfeel while preserving its vibrant fruit profile and characteristic maritime salinity.