Moulin-à-Vent „La Rochelle“ AOC 2019

Wine Description for Moulin-à-Vent „La Rochelle“ AOC 2019 by Romanesca

Colour & Appearance

Medium-dense garnet red with youthful luminosity – a wine that reveals its origins at first glance in the glass.

Nose

Remarkably clear and precise. The La Rochelle unfolds a bright aromatic bouquet of redcurrants and barberries, along with sour cherries and ripe raspberries. Subtle plum notes are complemented by fine nuances of vanilla and cinnamon – like stewed fruit, without heaviness.

Palate

Here reveals the true nature of a great Moulin-à-Vent: the wine elegantly combines sweet-vanilla elements with smoke, earth and a hint of dry wood. The vibrant acidity carries the dense fruit effortlessly, whilst fine tannins provide structure. Despite its concentration, the wine remains impressively transparent and clear – a rare combination of pleasant substance and genuine elegance.

Finish

Medium-length with lingering fruit and an earthy minerality that recalls the granite bedrock.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard site La Rochelle lies west of the Moulin-à-Vent village centre on deep weathered granite. Of the 19 hectares of the site, the Chastels cultivate 2.3 hectares with approximately 50-year-old vines that yield only 25-35 hl/ha – a guarantee of concentration and expression.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, hand-picked and carefully sorted. Vinification took place with whole bunches in semi-carbonic maceration for approximately 15 days. Undamaged berries formed the base, slightly crushed ones the upper layer – a traditional method that preserves Gamay’s characteristic freshness. Aged for one year in used wooden barrels.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Perfect with roasted chicken with harissa and lemon, tacos or Comté polenta with roasted Jerusalem artichokes. The acidity and structure also make it an ideal companion for grilled meat or charcuterie.

Special Characteristics

This is Moulin-à-Vent as it should be: powerful, yet not heavy, structured, yet not harsh. A wine that demonstrates that Gamay on granite is one of France’s most underrated combinations.