2021 Domaine de Fenouillet Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge

Southern Rhône value like this is rare. Domaine de Fenouillet’s 2021 Vaucluse Rouge blends Marselan and Merlot, fermented then rested six months in cement for supple texture and vivid fruit, delivering effortless charm and impressive balance. It’s organically farmed and crafted by the Soard family in Beaumes‑de‑Venise, where limestone soils and mistral breezes help preserve freshness and purity. Expect bright red berries, a whisper of garrigue, and that telltale sous‑bois note that makes it feel undeniably southern yet refreshingly poised. It’s effortlessly drinkable. Yet there’s enough verve and structure to shine at weeknight dinners and casual parties alike, making this an irresistible, crowd‑pleasing organic red blend from the Rhône. Serve slightly cool for maximum lift. Pure Southern Rhône charm.

Nose: Energy leaps from the glass. Juicy strawberry, redcurrant, and ripe plum mingle with sage, thyme, and a dusting of white pepper for an inviting, sun‑drenched bouquet that still feels lifted and precise. Hints of forest floor and scrubby garrigue add savory depth, suggesting a countryside stroll after summer rain as the aromas broaden and evolve with air. Violets and a trace of graphite provide a graceful, floral echo that keeps you coming back for another swirl.

Palate: Silky meets lively. The medium‑bodied frame carries cherry, raspberry, and plum compote wrapped in fine tannins, while brisk acidity propels the fruit with mouthwatering momentum from start to mid‑palate. A savory undercurrent of dried herbs, cocoa nib, and gentle pepper adds contour, creating dimension without heaviness as the wine glides across the tongue. Despite its approachability, the balance feels deliberate and confident, making every sip feel polished and refreshingly composed.

Finish: Freshness takes the final bow. Red‑fruited notes persist alongside thyme, bay leaf, and a subtle mineral twang, tapering in measured waves that invite another pour and another plate. Tannins resolve into a soft, suede‑like caress, leaving the palate clean rather than fatigued, which amplifies the wine’s table‑friendly personality and easy charm. The last impression is bright, savory, and steady, a quietly satisfying coda that lingers longer than you’d expect.

Craving a versatile red for the table? Try these pairings that echo Provence and highlight the wine’s bright fruit and supple texture.
Herb‑roasted chicken with olives, lemon, and garlic; let the pan juices mingle with the wine’s acidity for a vibrant, savory duet.

Grilled lamb kofta with sumac and mint yogurt; the spice and char play beautifully against the wine’s red fruit and gentle tannins.

Classic ratatouille over creamy polenta or olive‑oil‑slicked farro; the stew’s sweet vegetables mirror the wine’s fruit while herbs chime in harmony.

Charcuterie board with saucisson sec, pâté de campagne, Tomme de Savoie, and black‑olive tapenade; the wine cleanses, refreshes, and readies the palate.