# Saint Auriol Châtelaine Rouge (2015)

- **Producer:** Les Domaines Auriol
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carignan, Syrah, Grenache
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, plum, cherry, blueberry, black pepper, vanilla, chocolate, prune, tobacco

## About this wine

Founded in 1995 in Lézignan-Corbières by pioneering winemaker Claude Vialade, Les Domaines Auriol focuses on expressing authentic Southern French terroirs through sustainable and organic viticulture. The Châtelaine cuvée is crafted under organic certification, showcasing the heritage red grape varieties of the Mediterranean region. The warm 2015 vintage allowed optimal phenolic ripening and exceptional fruit concentration across the Languedoc.

## Interesting facts

- Founded by Claude Vialade, one of the pioneering female winemakers and leaders in the Languedoc region.
- Awarded both Gold and Bronze medals at the prestigious Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon.
- Crafted from vines grown on clay-limestone soils surrounded by Mediterranean garrigue.

## Food pairing

The structured tannins, full body, and dark fruit density of this red blend make it an ideal match for rich, savory red meats and braised game. Its fresh acidity cuts through fat, while its herbal garrigue notes harmonize beautifully with tomato-based sauces and aged hard cheeses.

## Wine making process

Winemaking begins with a two-day cold pre-maceration to extract vibrant aromatic nuances and deep color. Primary fermentation and skin maceration take place over three weeks under precise temperature control. The wine then undergoes aging for approximately 12 months in oak barrels, softening the structure and integrating subtle spice and oak characteristics.