La Domitienne 2024 Carignan Vieilles Vignes

The Wine

This wine features bright dark fruit notes wrapped in a pleasantly rustic palate, and we mean that in the best Mediterranean way. Carignan can be produced in a variety of styles, depending on where it's planted. This one leans more toward the burly side than the soft, feminine side of Carignan. But in a way we find worthy of contemplation over a long evening of conversation.

The wine opens with tempting dark fruits - ripe blackberry, black cherry, and a touch of blueberry, then lifted by hints of garrigue - the dried herbs and a faint peppery edge that typifies wines from the South of France. On the palate, the wine is medium‑bodied and vibrant, with lively acidity that brightens this dark-fruit dominated wine which otherwise would seem heavy after the first glass was only half gone.

But the best part of this wine is the concentration that comes from the old vines - vieilles vignes - low-yielding vineyards that produce layers of complexity and intrigue to ponder for the course of the evening. Look for notes of licorice, dried herbs, and a whisper of earth. Enjoy!

Pairings: Bridge flavors include Herbs de Provence, smoked paprika, tomato/olive/garlic combo, and charred/grilled preparations. Think ratatouille, BBQ pork ribs, Burgers, margherita pizzas, duck confit with lentils and Cassoulet (Classic!).  For cheese pairings, reach for Tomme de Savoie, Ossau-Iraty, aged goat cheeses and aged Goudas.

The Winery

La Domitienne is a Languedoc estate named for the ancient Roman road, the Via Domitia, which runs near their vineyards along the Mediterranean coast. The domaine focuses on traditional southern French varieties, with old‑vine Carignan being a particular strength. These vines, often several decades old, grow on warm, stony soils that naturally limit yields and intensify flavor.

The winemaking is straightforward and respectful of the fruit: gentle extraction, cool fermentations to preserve freshness, and minimal oak influence to let the variety’s natural brightness and herbal character shine. The result is a style that’s lively, sun‑kissed, and rooted in the Languedoc’s coastal terroir.