# Nouveau Nez (2023)

- **Producer:** Romain Le Bars
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, redcurrant, raspberry, red cherry

## About this wine

Nouveau Nez is a red wine produced by Romain Le Bars under the Vin de France classification. Le Bars, a natural winemaker, was deeply influenced by his time at Domaine de L'Anglore. He cultivates his vines organically in the Southern Rhône region. The wine is made from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Carignan, employing carbonic maceration. It is bottled early as a 'primeur' wine, intended for immediate drinking and embodying the spirit of a 'vin de soif' or thirst-quenching wine.

## Interesting facts

- Romain Le Bars transitioned from law to winemaking, inspired by a legendary natural wine producer.
- The name 'Nouveau Nez' translates to 'New Nose,' hinting at its fresh, aromatic profile.
- This wine is a 'vin de soif,' meaning it's exceptionally thirst-quenching.
- Production is minuscule, making it a sought-after find for natural wine enthusiasts.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity and light body make it incredibly versatile. It cuts through richness without overpowering delicate flavors, and its bright fruit notes complement a wide array of fresh ingredients and lighter proteins.

## Wine making process

Nouveau Nez is produced using carbonic maceration for 10 days, followed by spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The grapes are hand-harvested from organically farmed vines. After a brief aging period in tanks or used barrels, the wine is bottled with minimal intervention and no added sulfites. This process emphasizes purity of fruit and a natural expression of the terroir.