Deep in the wilds of Roussillon, where the Pyrenees gently slope down to the Mediterranean and the rugged Catalan soul is palpable, Tom Lubbe creates wines that are more conversation than drink. His Cuv\u00e9e Alexandria represents the renaissance of an almost forgotten tradition - a white wine with orange-coloured ambitions that blurs the boundaries between categories and reminds us that great wines need not be trapped in convention.<\/p>\n
In the glass, this Muscat d'Alexandrie shimmers with a fascinating coppery transparency - not completely clear, but not intentionally cloudy either. Rather, it is a conscious decision in favour of authenticity, which manifests itself in a soft amber hue with golden reflections. The slight cloudiness tells the story of its unadulterated bottling - a visual testament to its natural creation process.<\/p>\n
The aromatic signature is unmistakably Muscat, but far from clumsy sweetness or one-dimensionality. Instead, a complex bouquet unfolds in which wild roses and subtle notes of nutmeg characterise the first impression. This is followed by a fascinating panorama of elderflowers in full bloom, grapefruit with its bitter peel and a hint of fresh hops. A mineral dimension of wet limestone and salt-soaked lemon lends the fragrance a Mediterranean depth. It is the aroma of a wine that does not want to please, but expresses its origins honestly - wild, impetuous and full of character.<\/p>\n
The true mastery of Lubbe's craft is revealed on the palate. The 35-day maceration has given the wine a remarkable structure - fine but present tannins that give the Muscat an unexpected backbone. The 2023 vintage - undoubtedly one of the most impressive in Matassa's history - shows a perfect balance between expressive fruit and earthy depth.<\/p>\n
The first sip surprises with a bone-dry character and an almost salty minerality that contrasts with the lush flavour. The acidity is precise and lively without ever being aggressive - it gives the wine a floating quality that contrasts with the textural density. A fascinating combination of bitter oranges, dried herbs and a subtle spiciness reminiscent of the sun-baked slopes of Roussillon develops on the finish.<\/p>\n
What really characterises this wine is its ability to be down-to-earth and ethereal at the same time - a paradox that only truly great wines can achieve. The low yields of a maximum of 18 hectolitres per hectare and the eleven months of ageing in 500-litre oak barrels have created a wine that has depth without ever appearing heavy.<\/p>\n
Tom Lubbe, originally from South Africa, has earned a reputation in northern Catalonia as one of the most uncompromising advocates of natural viticulture. His vineyards are cultivated using strictly organic and biodynamic methods, with a particular focus on old, ungrafted vines that are deeply rooted in the barren slate soils of Roussillon.<\/p>\n
Only old Muscat d'Alexandrie vines are used for the Cuv\u00e9e Alexandria, whose low yields ensure exceptional concentration. The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented spontaneously and matured without any additives. The complete absence of filtration and sulphur emphasises Lubbe's philosophy of creating wines that are an unadulterated portrait of their origin.<\/p>\n
The 2023 vintage, bottled in an impressive 1500ml magnum, promises a fascinating development over the next few years, with the larger bottle ensuring particularly harmonious ageing.<\/p>\n
This exceptional wine calls for dishes with character and depth. It harmonises particularly brilliantly with Pasta with grilled fennel, courgette and sardines<\/strong>The salty intensity of the sardines perfectly complements the mineral dimension of the wine.<\/p>\n Vegetarian options such as Fennel tart with goat's cheese<\/strong> offer a fascinating interplay in which the earthy notes of the wine emphasise the creamy texture of the cheese.<\/p>\n On warm summer evenings, a simple Apple, fennel and melon salad<\/strong> with a touch of good olive oil and sea salt to bring out the delicate flavours of this remarkable wine.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"\n