Natural wine making in the heart of Rhone France - Domaine Rouge Bleu
Philosophy:
A great feature of this vineyard is the age of the vines which, coupled with the terroir, holds the potential to create wines of superb quality. By developing deep roots of the vines, it allows them to reach water and mineral complexity in the soil which is in turn transmitted to the grapes.
Another signature way this vineyard develops its grapes is using the good effect of wild yeasts brought by insects. These yeasts brought by the native environment end up fermenting the wines and contribute to the expression of terroir
Varietals that come from this winery include Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Roussane. These wines are stored in traditional porous concrete tanks and barrels which allows them to breathe without being overwhelmed by oak toast flavors.
The Wine Makers:
From the Vosges mountains in the east of France, Thomas spent 12 years in the UK working exclusively in the wine trade. After working for one of the major wine estates in Chateauneuf-du-Pape as head of Domestic Sales and Oenotourism, he was able, since 2015, to devote himself fully to Domaine Rouge-Bleu.
Having sold and tasted many wines from around the world, Thomas decided it was time to have a go at making the stuff! A real wish to return to the rural lifestyle of his childhood, and Caroline’s shared interest in French living were the catalysts for moving back to France and starting the search for their dream vineyard.
Originally from Western Australia, winemaker Caroline Jones has worked in various regions of Australia and France, with roles ranging from harvesting and pruning vines to cellar hand, laboratory manager, and vintage winemaker.
The Wines:
Lunatique
Appellation: Vin de France
Colour: Red
Production: 1200 bottles
Varieties: 100% Grenache Noir
Yield: 10hl/ha
Alcohol: 15%
Mistral Red
Appellation: AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages Sainte Cécile
Colour: Red
Production: 10 000 bottles
Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Roussanne
Yield: 20hl/ha
Alcohol: 14%
Dentelle Red
Appellation: IGP Mediterranée
Colour: Red
Production: 7 000 bottles
Varieties: Carignan, Grenache
Yield: 27hl/ha
Alcohol: 13%
Dentelle Rose
Appellation: AOP Côtes du Rhône
Colour: Rosé
Production: 6000 bottles
Varieties: Carignan, Grenache
Yield: 35hl/ha
Alcohol: 12%