2020 Pierre de Fontval Cairanne, Rhône Valley, France
ABOUT THIS WINE
This Rhône Valley blend is composed of 65% Grenache Noir and 35% Syrah. The grapes are harvested when they reach their optimal phenolic maturity. Grapes are chosen from rocky terraces composed of red and white limestone clay. They are then destemmed, pressed, and undergo a cold skin maceration for 48 hours. Each varietal is then processed separately. Alcoholic fermentation is induced with controlled temperature, around 25°C rising to 30°C over the last days of the fermentation. Phenolic extraction is facilitated by two daily pump-overs. The blend is placed for 12 months in concrete vats then undergoes light filtering with no fining. The nose yields aromas of dark cherries with spicy and minty undertones. The mouthfeel is perfectly balanced, with a pleasant freshness due to fruity and peppery notes under the cover of smooth and well-integrated tannins.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
The Ravoire family traces its origins to the County of Savoy, where they settled in the Montmélian region as early as the 12th century. Knights of the sword and members of the minor nobility, they played an active role in regional conflicts before migrating in 1471 to the Comtat Venaissin near Carpentras. There, the family became deeply involved in local affairs, notably distinguished by Captain Ravoire’s successful campaign to restore order in the late 16th century. Over the centuries, successive generations put down lasting roots in the Rhône Valley, particularly as winegrowers in the Luberon.
This deep connection to the land inspired Roger Ravoire to found his family wine business in 1987, joined in 2004 by his son Olivier. Today, each vintage is approached as a unique expression of climate, grape variety, and soil. Winemaking is guided by constant tasting, analysis, and close supervision of partner cellars, with tailored decisions made for every vat. Depending on the desired profile, wines are aged in tanks to preserve fruit purity or in carefully selected oak barrels, demi-muids, or foudres from leading French cooperages. With no predefined recipe, the aim is always the same: to reveal the diversity of terroirs, harness the Mediterranean sun, and craft wines of balance, freshness, elegance, and complexity.