2021 Domaine de Fenouillet Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge

Here’s a southern-France red that surprises with freshness and finesse. Grown by the Soard family in Beaumes-de-Venise, the 2021 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge blends 70% Marselan (a rare hybrid) with 30% Merlot. It was fermented in cement tanks and aged for six months in cuve for clean expression of red fruit and subtle earth. Bright, lively and approachable, it’s a wine with character but no pretense — ideal for casual evenings yet worthy of thoughtful pairing.

Nose: Ripe strawberry and plum lead the aroma, joined by forest floor (“sous-bois”) and a hint of Mediterranean herb.

Palate: The palate shows juicy red berry fruits, firm but welcoming Merlot structure, a mineral thread and a lively, mouth-watering acidity.

Finish: Dry and clean, the finish leaves subtle notes of wild cherry, light earth and a refreshing minerality that beckons another sip.

This wine pairs beautifully with roasted pork with herbs de Provence, a hearty ratatouille with grilled vegetables, or a platter of aged goat cheese and olives. The fresh acidity and red-berry profile make it versatile and food-friendly.