# Nobles Origines (2021)

- **Producer:** Maison Tardieu-Laurent
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** black fruit, red fruit, white pepper, violet, fresh floral, licorice, earth

## About this wine

Nobles Origines 2021 by Maison Tardieu-Laurent is an AOC Côtes du Rhône red wine from the Rhône Valley, France. The blend comprises 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, sourced from old vines. The 2021 vintage was challenging, characterized by frost, leading to wines with notable freshness and elegance. Maison Tardieu-Laurent, a micro-négociant founded by Michel Tardieu, focuses on maturing exceptional wines from top sites, emphasizing terroir and a classic style.

## Interesting facts

- Grapes come from old vines averaging 50 years for Grenache.
- One-third of the grapes undergo whole-bunch fermentation.
- The wine is aged in oak from Allier and Tronçais forests.
- Maison Tardieu-Laurent is a 'micro-négociant,' producing very small quantities.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-full body, ripe tannins, and pronounced fruit notes complement the richness of red meats and game. Its freshness and herbal undertones cut through fatty elements and harmonize with savory herbs and earthy ingredients.

## Wine making process

The winemaking for Nobles Origines 2021 involves sourcing grapes from old vines, with 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre. A key technique is the partial whole-bunch fermentation of about one-third of the grapes. The wine undergoes an extended aging process: 10 months in used oak barrels (one and two years old) followed by 8 months in large foudres. The oak used is sourced from the Allier and Tronçais forests.